Internet of things (IoT) is gaining a lot of traction in projects and large-scale implementation of ideas. So, if you are building a project or even just reading about what IoT comprises of, a key factor to look at is security. Security is a factor that we need to take into account for regardless of the niche of application. It is thus crucial to understand the factors that affect IoT security. In this article we will go through some of those factors and try to understand why and how they influence the security of an IoT network.
Let us first start by analyzing the components of an IoT network and understanding the security risk involved. Even though IoT have been a boon to building networks with a large number of devices, the risk for a security breach is just as large.
What factors affect security in IoT networks?
Constant Expansion:
IoT networks are ever-expansive. This means that the security has to not only be end-to-end but must also be adaptive to dynamic changes.
Frequency of updates:
The network is mostly always working which means ‘updates’ that take place on your phone or laptop cannot be frequented on IoT devices. Thus, the security factors in place must constantly run and monitor the network.
Data accuracy:
Consequence of data accuracy in most IoT networks is quite large. This means that in addition to preventing breaches we need to ensure that the accuracy of these networks remain impact. This makes security tightening a challenge.
Difference in devices:
IoT networks bring together a plethora of different types of devices. This poses a problem as we then require different types of solutions.
Introduction of security:
Security integration before introduction into the market can be a blow to the budget and will also slow down development.
No regulation of security:
There is lack of standardized framework and rules for existing IoT networks. This means that ensuring compatibility and establishing highly secure networks are much tougher.
Passwords:
Hard-coded passwords, which are frequently used by IoT devices arequite easy to infiltrate.
What approaches to building an IoT applications will ensure more security?
Most popular networks today, from Bluetooth to WiFi had the curve of finding the best possible security measures, and continue to do so till date. IoT too is starting to focus on these aspects. However, owing to the various factors and variations in networks – a possible security breach always seems to be just around the corner.
- Detecting and reporting threats in real time, along with decision-making in IoT networks needs to be developed before deploying it.
- Understanding the sensitivity of the data in the network and the consequence of any breach. This can go a long way in investing in the right type of security for the network.
- Analyse using statistics and deep learning the points in the network where there is highest probability of threats. This will aid in scrutinizing the security requirements of those areas and thus the overall network.
- Generating different access codes across the architecture – like keys. They can then only be provided to the authenticated devices that require access to that area of the network.
- Another way to ensure segregated access across the network according to hierarchy is through something called device identification. This means identifying trusted devices through provisions like eSIMs.
- Establishing security gateways which have more capabilities as compared to IoT devices directly connected to the network.
- Using encryption in IoT networks can further secure communication within the network devices.
- In an IoT network, the location of devices cannot always be foreseen. It is also possible that devices are placed in a position where it is not possible to provide physical security.
If you are still under the impression that IoT security risks are the imagination of an overthinker, here is some news for you!
In January 2019 (yes, this wasn’t long ago) a bug from Apple was a headliner. In Arizona, a 14-year-old discovered this when trying to add his friend to a group conversation. Even though the friend did not answer, the caller was able to listen in on the conversations around the friend’s phone. You can read a news report about this here
I also have another story that will blow your minds.
Can you imagine the consequence of not implementing security on an aquarium temperature sensor? Well, picture this: a casino was hacked! A casino had IoT temperature sensors which allowed remote monitoring. This obviously was connected to the local network for internet access. The hackers were able to use this small loophole to infiltrate and access confidential data. Am I making this up? Read about it here
Now that we have an understanding about the security risks that IoT brings along with it, we must remember the magnanimous applications that it can be used for as well. This topic as with any other, is a matter of healthy balance. Putting excessive pressure on increased security can be counterproductive. In fact, it can turn out to be a limit unlocking the full potential of IoT application. So, keep in mind the trade-offs and sensitivity of the application that you are working on and don’t lose sight of the big picture.
