How To Enhance Security In The IoT Age

App builders that are looking to utilize the Internet of Things often find themselves experiencing certain quandaries. The securing of devices that are used by companies that wish to maximize the benefits of the IoT is of the utmost importance. This is one of the primary concerns associated with this platform.

After all, what good is the IoT if it places businesses and their customers at risk of security breaches? In order to feel justified in relying on app builders that are looking to create products for IoT devices, the proper security related steps must be taken. What can organizations do to make sure that they remain safe going forward?

The following guide is here to help:

1. Manage The Supply Chain

Any endeavor that relies on the Internet of Things will touch every aspect of a supply chain. The top app builders recommend taking the time to meet with each member of this chain. All it takes is one weak link to leave a company in serious trouble. Speak to the vendors and suppliers before proceeding. App builders should also be able to provide access to consumer research before they are chosen for the job.

Speaking to any group that manages the company’s supply chain ensures that all parties involved are on the same page. All security teams must be working concurrently. If everyone is not pulling in the same direction, this is when any number of issues are bound to occur.

2. Segregate Devices

Once a company elects to hire app builders that allow them to get the most out of the IoT, there is a temptation to place all devices on the same network. However, this can be a recipe for disaster. Placing the key devices on a network that can support them alone is beneficial to security.

Let’s say that a company is looking to make sure that their vending machines that rely on the Internet of Things are under a greater level of control. When a machine of this nature requires access to the Internet, this can cause major issues for a company that is unprepared. This is why app builders will recommend segregating devices whenever possible.

3. One Way Connections

These connections reduce many of the concerns that naturally take place at times like these. If network connections can essentially be initiated by anyone, it is not long before security issues start to occur. Access must be limited and firewall protection is of the utmost importance. An IoT device cannot be allowed to initiate connections internally.

This does not prevent a hacker from being able to access these systems. However, if a hacker is able to compromise a system in an environment of this nature, one way connections are crucial. If a hacker is able to laterally move between networks, the level of damage that can be caused is astronomical.

4. Verify The Identity of Each Device

Everyone is familiar with the concept of identity theft. This is what occurs when someone is able to lift money from a checking or savings account, despite not being able to access the funds directly. Forgers and counterfeiters are always improving on their methods. The same is true for those who engage in identity theft in the IoT realm. Companies need to be sure that they are verifying the identity of each device being used.

IT departments and company security have to take the time to verify the identity of any device that is being used for communication purposes. Spoofing takes place on an all too regular basis. Now that there are so many IoT devices in use, it is open season. This provides would be scammers with far more surface area to attack than ever before. Make sure that each IoT device has its own unique identity that is fully verified.

5. Take Care of the Smallest Components First

In order to build up IoT security, businesses must align with app builders that know how to take the proper steps. The smallest components must taken care of first. Those who try to start with the larger steps and work their way back are placing themselves in a very dangerous position. The majority of the devices that are going to rely on the Internet of Things are smaller in nature. Source codes need to be written by app builders that keep this important fact in mind.

Memory leaks and various vulnerabilities occur when smaller components are not addressed early. The best defense is a good offense. In other words, test the devices over and over and over again before going live. Preventive medicine is the way to go. Curing an issue once it has already begun to take place is infinitely more challenging than handling it ahead of time. Choose a testing tool that is well regarded in the current marketplace.

Each individual organization must make the best decisions for their own security concerns. The aforementioned techniques are best utilized by all companies and app builders. On the other hand, that does not mean that there is no individualization to consider.

When meeting with app builders, a company that relies on the IoT needs to make sure that all departments are in compliance and that every member of the supply chain is on board. From there, it is all about remaining compliant with industry regulations and choosing the proper manufacturers. These simple steps allow companies of all sizes to enjoy present and future success.

Author Bio:

Elena Randall is a Content Creator Who works for Top Software Companies, provides a top 10 list of top software development companies within the world. She is passionate about reading and writing.