6 Things to Know About IoT Device Security

In the last few years, the world has become increasingly digital. This process became accelerated through the COVID-19 lockdowns, which forced many industries and avenues to connect through the Internet.

This phenomenon has led to the emphasis on the Internet of Things (IoT). As companies become more digital, they have many more data security concerns.

To move to the digital space, companies use many devices to communicate and analyze data. However, as they branch into more devices, they provide hackers with more footholds to infiltrate their networks.

As such, you need IoT device security to protect your networks. In this guide, we’ll give you six IoT device security facts you need to keep your system safe.

1. IoT Device Security Starts with Password Maintenance

The primary act of device security is establishing passwords to keep out intruders. A password is an ultimate defense against malignant actors online.

Many people make themselves vulnerable by either creating simple, easy-to-remember passwords or not changing passwords. Once you add a device to your network, you need a password that’s difficult to guess.

If you’ve had that password for some time, switch it out with another. Also, create password guidelines for your company that all employees must follow.

2. Avoid Universal Plug and Play

Universal plug and play features are convenient ways to ensure every device can find one another and interact. This system allows you to avoid configuring each piece.

While this is a convenience for your workers, it also helps hackers. All they need is to access one device, and from there, they can infiltrate others in the network.

3. Regularly Patch and Update Systems

Most IT systems incorporate designs that regularly patch security flaws through scheduled updates. Most IoT devices don’t utilize these same features.

Instead, these devices require you to secure your system through the original vendor. As you continue to use their devices, maintain contact with vendors and work with them to protect your network.

4. Improving Application Programming Interface Security

Application programming interfaces (API) are essential to modern technology. Organizations use API to connect devices and transmit data across many channels.

This approach works because IoT devices connect to API and establish a secure connection. As such, ensuring IoT device security begins with improving API security. By enhancing your API, you can protect inbound and outbound data reliably.

5. Train Your Employees in Data Security

Your employees must know the warning signs of a device security threat. However, it benefits companies to train their employees in the best safety practices as well. Without this training, employees will often choose to do whatever seems most convenient without regard for the risks.

6. Monitoring Your Connected Computer Security

As you continue to build your IoT system, maintain a robust monitoring method. Keep a close eye on the number of IoT-connected devices and ensure they follow security measures. Also, establish protocols for identifying and removing any unauthorized IoT device from the system.

Secure Your Network Today

Your professional network’s safety begins with IoT device security. Use the information in this article to strengthen your system protections today.

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