There’s a reason why IT professionals consider the Internet of Things (IoT) a major security concern. Every day, 5.5 million new devices are connected to the Internet, creating an ever-expanding attack surface for cybercriminals. Without proper safeguards, these devices can become a serious liability for businesses focused on IoT security.
The Hidden Risks of IoT Devices
One of the biggest issues with IoT security is that many users fail to properly secure their devices—especially Internet-connected security cameras. When left unsecured, these cameras can be exploited for malicious purposes.
A study by UK-based Pen Test Partners, reported by Lisa Vaas of Naked Security, revealed alarming vulnerabilities in IoT devices. Their research, which analyzed data from Shodan—a search engine for Internet-connected devices—found that many surveillance cameras are wide open to hackers.
How Easy Is It to Access Unsecured Cameras?
Shockingly, even an average PC user can create a Shodan account and search for unsecured cameras. These cameras often stream live feeds from sensitive locations, including:
- Schools
- Banks
- Offices
- Private homes
- Baby rooms
According to Vocativ and Ars Technica, Shodan users who pay a $49 monthly fee can access full camera feeds, complete with pinned maps showing the device’s location. This level of exposure is not only unethical but also dangerous for IoT security.
What Makes IoT Devices So Vulnerable?
The Pen Test Partners study uncovered several critical flaws in IoT devices:
- No CSRF protection, allowing attackers to trick users into malicious actions.
- No account lockout, enabling unlimited password-guessing attempts.
- Unencrypted communications make data easy to intercept.
- No firmware updates, leaving devices permanently vulnerable.
- Suspicious behavior, such as sending still images to servers in China.
These weaknesses highlight why IoT security cannot be an afterthought.
How to Protect Your Business from IoT Threats
If your organization uses IoT devices, here are some best practices to improve security while emphasizing IoT security measures:
- Change default passwords immediately after installation.
- Enable encryption for all device communications.
- Apply firmware updates regularly to patch vulnerabilities.
- Segment IoT devices on a separate network from critical systems.
- Monitor device activity for unusual behavior.
Partner with Experts for IoT Security
The Internet of Things offers incredible convenience and efficiency, but without proper security measures, it can expose your business to serious risks. At Vision Computer Solutions, we help businesses secure their IoT devices and protect their networks from cyber threats.
Need help securing your IoT environment? Call us today at 1.248.349.6115 and let’s make your connected devices safe and reliable.
Charles Lobert, has been in the Detroit Metro Area’s IT industry for over two decades & with VCS since ’04. Throughout the years, Lobert has held nearly every position at VCS & is responsible for several major organizational shifts within VCS.