Managed Cybersecurity Services Address IoT Security Challenges
Managed Cybersecurity Services Address
The Internet of Things brings great convenience to people’s lives, but it also creates new opportunities for cyber attackers to infiltrate networks and steal valuable data. From networked medical devices to HVAC systems and even fish tanks, every connected device expands the number of potential entry points into an organization’s managed cybersecurity services infrastructure.
IoT security vulnerabilities can be exploited by attackers to access sensitive data, clog network traffic, or install malware. Once an adversary gains access through a vulnerable IoT device, they can then move laterally throughout the network to evade detection and gain additional entry points into the system.
In order to improve IoT device security, it’s essential to run thorough penetration testing to find vulnerabilities and reduce the attack surface. Penetration tests can be performed at both the firmware and software levels and can be carried out either through static or dynamic testing to dig up well-hidden vulnerabilities.
Another way to reduce the risk of IoT security breaches is to ensure the devices have secure communication protocols and secure data handling. For example, using a secure protocol for remote over-the-air (OTA) upgrades and requiring encrypted communication channels between the IoT device and other systems can prevent attackers from eavesdropping on communications, which can expose IoT devices to unauthorized access and potential data leakage.
Finally, ensuring the IoT device is physically secure can be important for maintaining good security posture. This includes limiting physical access to the device, implementing strict authentication and authorization policies for IoT systems and devices, securing the hardware, and installing data-at-rest encryption.
Managed Cybersecurity Services Address IoT Security Challenges
Despite the efforts of vendors and security professionals, it’s not uncommon for IoT devices to become exposed to attacks that can result in serious consequences. For instance, attackers can clog network traffic and spoof the identity of IoT devices to disrupt operations. Alternatively, attacks can drain the battery power of a connected sensor or change lifesaving settings on implanted pacemakers.
One of the biggest challenges with IoT security is detecting threats that are happening in real time. This is because the IoT devices are often in constant communication with other systems and can be hard to detect.
managed cybersecurity services can help address this challenge by integrating IoT data into a larger threat intelligence platform and performing continuous monitoring of IoT devices to look for anomalous behavior.
Managed security services can also provide a cost-effective solution for small to midsized businesses that don’t have full-time security specialists or departments. These organizations include distributed location businesses, attorneys’ offices, medical or dental practices, and other professional service providers. For these companies, managed security services can help them protect their customers’ data and assets, meet government-mandated regulations, and avoid the costly effects of a cyberattack or data breach.
By providing 24/7 monitoring, management and maintenance of critical security functions, managed cybersecurity services can help businesses keep their costs down without sacrificing the level of security they need to stay compliant with industry regulations. By doing so, they can enable SMBs to take advantage of the great advantages that IoT brings.