As IoT devices are becoming more popular not only in the business world but also in our homes, it’s important to keep device security in mind. If you’re already doing this, great! However, are you committing any of these IoT security mistakes?
#1: Sticking with default passwords
Sure, it’s easy to just go with the password your device comes with, but this is actually an easy way to experience unauthorized access. When you purchase a new IoT device, your first step after setting it up is to create your own secure password.
#2: Lack-luster user training
Having IoT devices can be a benefit to any business; however, simply implementing IoT devices isn’t enough. Most often, it’s the human factor that can be the weakest point in any security plan; therefore, it’s important that IoT users are trained. This includes even the simplest protocol practices of ensuring sensitive information isn’t left on a shared printer or that scanned information makes it to the correct folder on a shared network.
#3: Not having device awareness
Just like employees need proper security training for IoT devices, they also need to thoroughly understand how to use the devices they’re working with. This includes understanding all the device’s capabilities. Moreover, it’s also important for employers to know exactly who is using which devices.
#4: Not updating firmware regularly
Updating firmware seems like an easy task to check off your to-do list, but there are devices, like printers, that are often forgotten about. For this reason, they are also one of the easiest ways to potentially expose infrastructure to hacking threats.
#5: Access and authorization miscues
Security concern is often the reason for businesses putting management controls on devices that print and/or scan. Data can be easily transferred or sent to unintended or even unauthorized folders. Also, it’s not just enterprises that should worry about controlling who can access such devices; it’s good practice for businesses of all sizes.