How Do 8 Layers Of IoT Security Keep Devices Safe?

By Emily Newton

Engineers and computer experts are constantly learning more about the Internet of Things (IoT). The coming decades will likely introduce millions more sensor-based devices into networks. These attack surfaces introduce numerous security concerns. Fortunately, there are many layers of IoT security. These are some of the most prominent, and how they make connected electronics safer for the public and infrastructure.

Device Hardware Security

The IoT is useful because it enhances access to virtual landscapes. This could make product designers forget about physical security measures. However, brute force attacks are still common, especially because many IoT devices are remotely operated and publicly accessible. Tools like wearables, smart home equipment, and medical devices need tangible features to keep them safe.

These include tamperproof cases, hardware-based encryption, loud alarms, and cameras with accurate recognition abilities. It may also include physical verification features to activate GPS tracking or locate other connected devices. Continuous surveillance with cameras and environmental monitoring is crucial for protecting consumers and their data.

Endpoint Security

These devices thrive from their countless connections, making endpoint protection one of the most important layers of IoT security. It saves tech from malware, unauthorized access, and more.

Edge computing is one of the best ways to fight endpoint compromises. It decentralizes and segments nodes from larger systems, preventing hackers from finding ways into more attack vectors.

It also shortens the distance between critical IoT devices and their transmission and storage devices. Downed IoT devices provide hackers a window of opportunity to exploit machinery. For example, a sensor could notice malicious activity in an edge device and issue notifications and corrective actions to isolate threats as quickly as possible.

Connection and Network Security

The connection between IoT devices needs protection as well. Security strategies in this layer can include firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion prevention systems, to name a few. These tools observe data in transit and prevent it from being extricated by cyber criminals.

Engineers also can employ more advanced tactics, which include encryption and messaging protocols, such as:

• TLS
• SSL
• AMQP
• MQTT
• HTTPS

Some strategies use private and public encryption keys to send information, ensuring only the correct recipients have access.

Authentication and Authorization

Protecting connections and networks can be part of the authentication and authorization layer. It also includes components like multifactor authentication and internal mechanisms like zero-trust architecture.

These prevent unwarranted access, but many do not engage or activate these features in IoT devices. Device misuse and human error are common catalysts for breaches. They cause 88% of data incidents, which is easy to fix with training and architecture reinforcement.

Data Processing and Encryption

IoT devices collect and store information but also parse and use it. Every stage of processing needs layers of protection. Robust encryption algorithms are the most important, but other data management practices also improve a device’s processing and defensive capabilities, such as:

• Data validation
• Data loss prevention
• Data minimization
• Backup and recovery

Application and Interface Security

This layer incorporates additional security measures with software or smart design choices. Programmers can craft a stronger, more secure code that lays the foundation for the applications on the device. API integrations are also crucial for making the equipment withstand most breach attempts.

The machine’s programs can include vulnerability scanners and automatic updates. It also can notify users when they connect to insecure networks or use weak or compromised passwords. This security extends to connected devices, such as mobile phones and computers. The apps that connect the device to these machines should have equally reinforced coding and protective elements.

Teams should also regularly test the application and interface layers with processes like penetration testing. This process identifies backdoors and vulnerabilities that could lead to spoofing, ransomware, or other common IoT attacks.

Management Security

Businesses are using more interconnected ecosystems with denser tech stacks, making management security vital to resilience. The average IoT attack on a company costs over $330,000, which could increase as devices collect more sensitive and higher amounts of information. Management security focuses on the in-house oversight of IoT devices and how experts monitor the system.

Teams must devise several protocols to protect IoT equipment. Business continuity plans informed by risk assessments are the best place to start, as they outline how to respond to imminent threats. Other techniques, such as remote device management capabilities, give teams more control over a device’s safety and prevent attackers from taking advantage of employees outside the work area.

The most important way to keep items safe is to follow compliance frameworks from cybersecurity agencies. Many offer specific guidance on the IoT and how to keep it safe from modern threats.

Cloud Security

The IoT and the cloud work hand in hand to make data accessible by sending and storing information without the cumbersome maintenance of on-site hardware. These conveniences invite cloud-specific attack variants.

Companies working with third-party cloud servers must gauge partners thoughtfully, ensuring all parties involved have equally strict cybersecurity measures. A provider’s services should include regular updates, quality customer service, and a reputation for isolating breaches before they get out of control. The contracts should also describe what threats fall under the purview of the cloud service provider and the client.

Businesses can vet their options by requesting security audit reports to validate security claims and policies. A quality cloud service also will offer more security features, such as additional encryption or device monitoring. This could include access control-as-a-service, which could see a market boost to $10.29 billion by 2032 because of the cloud-IoT relationship.

The Layers of IoT Security That Matter Most

The IoT will be the backbone of many sectors, including a boon to many individuals. It will make production lines faster, healthcare more attentive, and environmental awareness higher. These advantages only happen if engineers, cybersecurity analysts, and corporations collaborate to bolster the layers of IoT security. When this happens, this technology will be ready to fight any attacks trying to tear it down.