Businesses must face the data security implications of the interconnected Internet of Things (IoT) devices they use. How can organizations protect these endpoints?
IoT Devices as Endpoints
IoT devices form a web of endpoints that communicate along the edge of a network perimeter, requiring a unique security posture. TechTarget describes endpoint security as “the practice of locking down all edge devices that connect to a corporate network to prevent them from becoming entry points that hackers can exploit.”
IoT endpoints are often non-traditional devices, such as digital watches that communicate with phones and computers, or medical devices that transmit health details to medical office servers from remote locations. These devices have revolutionized aspects of everyday life, and streamlined many parts of international business. Global communication allows businesses to integrate various types of information from hundreds or thousands of sources through one network with an ease that would have been unimaginable forty years ago. The different locations, designs, and usages of these devices can cause security professionals headaches as they attempt to protect so many disparate devices and machines, all transmitting data to a central organizational network.
When these devices connect to Wi-Fi, they begin sending and receiving data, becoming an access point for all the information stored on the wider network. These endpoints must be secured the same way a “traditional” endpoint, such as a desktop computer, would need to be. The protection of these devices is critical when it comes to maintaining organizational integrity. As more IoT devices are added, the digital perimeter increases and more safeguard measures are required.
Protecting IoT Endpoints
Organizations must secure the proprietary and critical data stored and transmitted on their networks. Vulnerable endpoints that form the final frontier of an organization’s posture must be secured to maintain the integrity of the network. Here are some tips for protecting IoT endpoints:
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Audit Network Devices
Verify only authorized devices can connect to the network. Utilize authorization tools to ensure that only approved devices are allowed access to the network.
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Purge Unused Machines
Remove any devices that are not in use by the organization. Use a software such as DriveStrike to Wipe devices so they can be set up for reuse or disposed of safely.
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Encrypt all data
Ensure all data is encrypted in transit and at rest. This helps maintain data privacy for customers and employees. Verify that data encryption meets or exceeds all industry best practice guidelines and legal requirements.
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Keep Software and Firmware Up To Date
Embedded programs should be patched regularly to protect devices from recently identified threats.
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Keep Network Separate
When IoT devices are separated from critical data and devices within a network, attackers trying to exploit an IoT device will have more trouble pivoting to other network resources.
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Invest in a Monitoring System
These systems provide security professionals and IT teams with alerts, allowing staff and employees to take decisive action if intrusions or malicious actions are detected.
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Secure the Physical Surroundings
Just because the data is digital does not mean the endpoints don’t need to be protected in the material world. Invest in locking storage cabinets, Multi-Factor authentication for compatible devices, work-from-home security tools, specific travel protocols, etc.
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Vet your Vendors
Verify that your contractors, partners, and vendors are capable of adequate data protection. Make sure they meet or exceed your organization’s security expectations, and verify their IoT devices are handled with care.
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Invest in Employee Education
Provide cybersecurity and data privacy training so staff understands both the practical aspects of securing IoT devices as well as the reasons they must take IoT security seriously.
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Track Mobile Devices
Install endpoint security software that can Locate mobile devices such as laptops and cell phones anywhere in the world.
IoT devices can complicate data security, which is why it is important to follow best practices for your organization’s defensive posture. Be proactive in defending Internet of Things endpoints to maintain the security of critical data on your network!