The Internet of Things (IoT) has seamlessly integrated itself into our daily lives, revolutionizing the way we interact with technology. Everyday objects, ranging from refrigerators and cars to traffic lights and industrial machines, have become interconnected. They communicate, collect data and make perform functions to enhance our lives and streamline business operations. Yet, this proliferation of interconnected devices has ushered in a new era of complexity and vulnerability when it comes to cybersecurity.  

As IoT devices infiltrate every facet of our existence, they inevitably become prime targets for exploitation. Imagine a scenario where your seemingly innocuous coffee pot at home runs on the C++ programming language. Now, consider the chilling possibility of a malicious actor taking control of your coffee pot, using it as a gateway to hold your entire house hostage. While it may sound far-fetched, it’s a stark reality in today’s IoT-driven world. 

The Challenge: Vulnerabilities and Trust Issues 

Traditional Attacks in the Face of IoT 

Our adversaries have discovered new battlegrounds within the IoT landscape. Vulnerabilities in IoT devices extend beyond the inconvenience of a malfunctioning coffee pot. Think about the implications on factory floors, where IoT systems control critical machinery and conveyor belts. Or imagine a threat actor taking command of smart cordless tools and shutting them down, causing a ripple effect of decreased productivity among job sites across the country. The potential consequences for attackers to disrupt essential operations takes on a whole new level of significance with IoT. 

Trust Issues 

Trust plays a pivotal role in the widespread acceptance of IoT. Unfortunately, security mishaps and breaches have eroded that trust. Due to lingering trust issues, many consumers remain reluctant to fully embrace IoT technology like self-driving cars and smart home devices. The doubts loom large in their minds, especially as we see articles about driverless cars causing traffic jams or hear about threat actors commandeering home security cameras to spy on and taunt the homeowners.  

Consumers of IoT technology have an expectation of security and privacy that’s well beyond what IoT solution providers deliver. I like to say that IoT is what tech looks like before all the “what ifs” have been thought about. We don’t have standardized security practices, which means there are widely varying levels of security features and protocols among manufacturers and devices. Up to just a few years ago, the focus was on interoperability, and cybersecurity was an afterthought. This has inevitably led to slower adoption of IoT technology in environments where security and privacy is important, which is unfortunate given IoT’s potential for efficiencies, productivity and other societal benefits. 

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The Knowledge Gap 

Securing IoT devices is uniquely challenging due to several factors that set them apart from conventional computers and mobile devices. One of the most prominent challenges is the widespread knowledge gap among consumers. Unlike traditional devices, where users often have a basic understanding of security practices like changing default passwords, IoT devices frequently confound users.  

Computers and smartphones typically have readily identifiable interfaces; however, IoT devices often operate behind the scenes, with no visible user interface, making it challenging to monitor or interact with these devices effectively. Think about it. If I try to set up a firewall rule for an IoT device, I have to know how the device communicates and with whom to ensure the firewall doesn’t affect the device’s ability to operate effectively. But therein lies the problem – how is the consumer supposed to figure that out? Unless they’re a geek like me with a HOOBS Box and the ability to analyze network traffic, they’re probably out of luck.  

There’s also the misconception that IoT uses custom-made components, reserved for specific, niche applications. In reality, the IoT technology used in defense equipment, airplanes and factory floors is the same technology you’ll find in your refrigerator or coffeemaker. IoT’s ubiquity combined with the challenges in securing it, make it a highly attractive target to cybercriminals. Some of the most common microcontrollers cost less than $20 and are found in nearly every factory and IoT device across the globe. 

The Imperative of IoT Security 

The key to realizing IoT’s true power is transparency and establishing standards that ensure security protocols are implemented consistently across IoT technologies.  

Transparency  

One glaring issue in the world of IoT is the lack of transparency regarding devices’ online activities and communications. Consumers have a fundamental right to understand what their devices are doing on the internet. As I stated in the last section, figuring out how the device is operating on the network and to whom it’s talking is a tall order for the average consumer.  

Transparency is a critical element in not only shoring up lax safety protocols among IoT devices but importantly, it’s a cornerstone of trust-building in the IoT landscape. Examples of success here are major tech companies like Apple and Microsoft publishing which network ports and protocols their various applications use—we need this transparency in the IoT and consumer products space. 

The MATTER Standard 

Addressing the urgent need for IoT security and interoperability, the MATTER initiative has emerged as a significant step forward. This effort seeks to establish industry-wide standards that ensure IoT devices are secure and capable of seamless communication with one another.  

A collaborative effort between tech giants Amazon, Apple, Google, Samsung SmartThings and the Zigbee Alliance, MATTER was introduced as a smart home standard in December 2019. This initiative, under the Project Connected Home over IP working group, aimed to establish a common language for IoT devices from various manufacturers, simplifying development for brands and enhancing compatibility for consumers.  

Now overseen by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), MATTER addresses a prevalent IoT issue – the need for constant internet connectivity. It enables devices to function offline, ensuring uninterrupted operation and bolstering security, especially for sensitive hardware like smart locks and security cameras, ultimately providing an enhanced, safer and more integrated smart home experience. 

Realizing the Full Potential of IoT 

In this era of transformation, securing IoT is not merely a choice; it’s an imperative. As IoT devices become an integral part of our lives and critical infrastructure, addressing vulnerabilities and trust issues is paramount. The MATTER standard represents steps in the right direction. Still, a collective effort from industry stakeholders, cybersecurity experts and policymakers is needed to increase transparency and fortify the IoT security landscape. 

Manufacturers must prioritize user-friendly interfaces, clear security guidelines and standardized security measures. Additionally, consumer education on IoT security practices, including the importance of changing default passwords and updating firmware, is crucial to bridge the existing knowledge gap and ensure a safer IoT ecosystem. The inevitability of IoT’s growth demands nothing less. In securing IoT, we not only protect our digital present but also shape the future of digital security for generations to come. 

J.R. Cunningham is the chief security offier at managed security services provider Nuspire.

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