The internet of things (IoT) has been growing at a rapid pace over the past few years, with an estimated 21.5 billion devices expected to be in use by 2025. However, as the number of connected devices increases, so does the potential for cyber attacks. It is now more important than ever to harden your IoT community safety to protect against such attacks.
The Growing Threat of Cyber Attacks on IoT Devices
With the increase in the number of connected devices, the threat of cyber attacks has also grown. IoT devices are particularly vulnerable to attacks as they often have weak security features, making them easy targets for hackers. Once a hacker gains access to an IoT device, they can use it to launch attacks on other devices within the same network, creating a domino effect.
Why Now is the Time to Harden Your IoT Community Safety
There are several reasons why now is the time to harden your IoT community safety. Firstly, as mentioned, the number of connected devices is expected to continue to rise, increasing the potential for cyber attacks. Secondly, with the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have shifted to remote work, meaning that more devices are being connected to home networks. This increases the risk of attacks on these networks.
Additionally, many IoT devices are used in critical infrastructure such as hospitals, transportation systems, and power grids. A successful attack on any of these systems could have catastrophic consequences, making it crucial to ensure that these devices are secure.
Steps to Harden Your IoT Community Safety
So, what can you do to harden your IoT community safety? Here are some steps to take:
- Update your devices: Many IoT devices come with default usernames and passwords, making them easy targets for attacks. Make sure to change these to strong, unique passwords.
- Keep your software up to date: Many attacks exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software. Regularly update your software to ensure that any known vulnerabilities are patched.
- Use a firewall: A firewall can help prevent unauthorized access to your network and devices. Make sure to configure your firewall to block all unnecessary traffic.
- Use encryption: Encryption can help protect your data from being intercepted by hackers. Make sure to use encryption wherever possible.
- Limit device access: Only allow trusted devices to connect to your network. This can help prevent unauthorized access and reduce the potential for attacks.
Conclusion
As the number of connected devices continues to rise, it is more important than ever to harden your IoT community safety. By taking the steps outlined above, you can help protect your devices and network from cyber attacks, keeping you and your community safe.