Internet of Things (IoT)
What Is an IoT Device?
It’s a physical object that connects to the Internet. It can be a fitness tracker, a thermostat, a lock or appliance – even a light bulb.
Imagine shoes that track your heartbeat… and can flag potential health problems. You don’t have to imagine – these “smart” shoes already exist!
How Will It Affect Me?
The Internet of Things has arrived and it’s going to introduce incredible opportunity over the next five years. And while smart things are exactly that, the IoT industry has a long way to go in terms of overall security. Many of today’s IoT devices are rushed to market with little consideration for basic security and privacy protections: “Insecurity by design.”
This puts you and everyone else at risk: from unwittingly being spied on or having your data compromised to being unable to lock your own home. You could even become part of a botnet that attacks the Internet. Your insecure webcam – along with millions of others – could be used to attack the power grid of an entire country.
From dental sensors that can monitor what a person eats to kitty litters that can track a cat’s every movement, it can be difficult to sort fact from fiction when it comes to the Internet of Things. Can you tell which is real and which is not?
Do You Trust Your IoT Device?
Do you know the security and privacy risks of your IoT device? If we want everyone to benefit from the potential of Internet-connected devices, we need to ensure that they are safe and trusted. You can join people around the world and stand up for a safer and more secure connected world.
If you are a manufacturer or you provide enterprise support, we’ve got you covered for IoT device security and privacy with IoT Trust Framework, Enterprise IoT Security Checklist, and Top Tips for Manufacturers.
If you’re a consumer, here are some tips for you:
- Learn how to “shop smart” for connected devices.
- Update your devices and its applications.
- Turn on strong encryption.
- Stop reusing passwords.
- Review the privacy settings on your devices and their applications.
- Use a strong password.
- Turn off the device or disconnect it from the Internet when not in use.
- Take steps to make your home network more secure.