Top 10 Tips to Secure your IOT Devices

Posted: Dec. 14, 2022 by Interware Team

1) Update Software

Install any updates that the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) releases right away. Most of the time, OEMs offer security updates to protect the device from known flaws and can strengthen the device's defence.

(2) Change Defaults

When we use the default usernames and passwords, it is attackable and cost your IoT device. Mirai Botnet exploits the same to convert IoT devices into DDoS attack machines. Your router has the default name of make and model. When we stick with the manufacturer name, attackers can quickly identify our make and model. So, give the router name different from your addresses, without giving away personal information.

(3) Use strong passwords and change them periodically

If you are using strong passwords for IoT devices, there is a rare chance of identity theft in IoT devices. Give strong and complex passwords formed by combinations of alphabets, numeric, and not easily bypassed symbols. Also, change passwords for multiple accounts and change them regularly to avoid attacks.

(4) Switch to the power-off mode when not in use

Power-off mode minimizes most types of risks in IoT devices. If not necessary or at night, you can switch off IoT devices.

(5) Enable a Multi-Factor Authentication mechanism

Greater security and assurance are made possible by multi-factor authentication. Today, every intelligent app provides authentication to protect the accounts and sending a one-time password (OTP) to validate the person who signs into the smart device.

(6) Remove unsupported operating systems and applications if any

Always check your IoT devices for redundant software applications. Uninstall it if not required.

(7) Ensure the IoT device connects to an only trusted wi-fi network

Try not to connect public wi-fi to your IoT device as it is generally more prone to attacks. The attacker may intercept the communication and reveal sensitive information because they are easily accessible. If you are still in a hurry to access, use VPN that gives them protection against cyber-attacks, giving them privacy and security features.

(8) Keep your connected devices safe

Securing smart devices is essential in the world of data. If your devices are connected to the internet, these connections are vulnerable to cyber attacks when your devices don’t have the proper security.
 (9) Disable features if not used

This step decreases the attack vector significantly. A common example is to switch off Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi features if you sleep or are not in use.

(10) Purchase trusted IoT products from the market

Avoid buying cheap IoT products in the market. Those products may bypass the basic security checks of IoT products.

Do you have trouble securing your IoT devices? Contact us today!