The document outlines seven essential security measures for improving IoT systems, highlighting the need for enhanced security due to increasing threats to internet-connected devices. Recommendations include changing default passwords, isolating corporate networks, limiting internet access to devices, and controlling vendor access. Implementing vulnerability scanners and updating software are also crucial steps to better protect organizations against potential breaches.

1. Top 7 Security Measures for IoT
Systems
It is important to understand that the Internet of Things (IoT) is based on the concept of
providing remote user access anywhere around the world to acquire data, operate computers,
and other devices. The widespread IoT network includes computing devices along with
unrelated machines that are solely responsible to transfer data excluding human-to-computer
or human-to-human involvement.
The outbreak of technology and vitality smart devices in diverse sectors such as energy,
finance, government, etc, makes it imperative to focus on their security standards. As per
security firm, Kaspersky, close to one-third (28%) of companies managing IoT systems were
threatened with attacks impacting their internet-connected devices during the year 2019.
Furthermore, almost 61% of organizations are actively making use of IoT platforms; thereby,
enhancing the overall scope for IoT security in the coming years.

2. Below mentioned are seven crucial steps for a business to uplift IoT security for preventing a
data breach.
Swapping Default Passwords
The foremost step to enhance IoT security is through a sensible approach. It is recommended
for businesses to enforce procedures that permit the changing of default passwords. This
action should be implemented for each of their IoT devices present on the network. In
addition, the updated passwords need to be changed on a timely basis. For added safety, the
passwords can be simply stored in a password vault. This step can prevent unauthorized users
from gaining access to valuable information.
Detach Corporate Network
Count it as an essential step to split the corporate network from unmanaged IoT devices.
This can include security cameras, HVAC systems, temperature control devices, smart
televisions, electronic signage, security NVRs and DVRs, media centres, network-connected
lighting and network-connected clocks. The businesses can make use of VLANs to separate
and further track various IoT devices active on the network. This also allows analyzing
important functions like facility operations, medical equipment, and security operations.
Limit Unnecessary Internet Admittance to IoT Devices
Many devices run on outdated operating systems. This can become a threat since any such
embedded operating system can be purposely reached out to command and direct locations.
In the past, there have been incidents when such systems have been compromised before they
got transported from other nations. To completely wash out an IoT security threat is not
possible but IoT devices can be prevented from communicating outside the organization.
Such a preventive measure outstandingly reduces the dangers of a potential IoT security
breach.

3. Control Vendor Access to IoT Devices
In order to improve IoT security, several businesses have limited the count of vendors
gaining access to different IoT devices. As a smart move, you can limit access to those
individuals already functioning under the careful supervision of skilled employees. In case
remote access is highly necessary, keep a check that vendors make use of the same solutions
similar to in-house personnel. This can include access via a corporate VPN solution.
Moreover, enterprises should assign a staff member to supervise remote access solutions on a
regularly. This individual should be well versed with certain aspects of software testing to
manage the task with proficiency.
Incorporate Vulnerability Scanner
The use of vulnerability scanners is an effective method in detecting the different types of
devices linked to a network. This can be viewed as a useful tool for businesses to improve
their IoT security. Vulnerability scanner in collaboration with a regular scanning schedule is
capable of spotting known vulnerabilities related to connected devices. You can easily access
several affordable choices of vulnerability scanners available in the market. If not a
vulnerability scanner, try accessing free scanning options such as NMAP.
Utilize Network Access Control (NAC)
An organization can successfully improve IoT security by implementing a NAC solution
consisting of a proper switch and wireless assimilations. This setup can help detect most
devices and recognize problematic connections within the network. A NAC solution, for
example, ForeScout, Aruba ClearPass, or CISCO ISE, are efficient tools to secure your
business network. If in case a NAC solution doesn’t fall within the budget, you can make use
of a vulnerability scanner for fulfilling the purpose.
Manage Updated Software
Having obsolete software can directly influence IoT security for your organization. Try to
manage your IoT devices by keeping them up-to-date and replacing the hardware to ensure
smooth operations. Delaying the update can prove a crucial factor to safeguard data and
invite serious cybersecurity breaches.
Security arrangements with IoT devices are helpful for businesses to minimize operational
costs, enhance productivity, and deliver better customer experience. The above pointers can
be understood and applied to sharpen IoT security directed at escalating your business’s
reach. To learn more about safeguarding IoT devices, you can simply connect with
professional experts at ImpactQA.