The group in this discussion focused their conversation on one main question: What are they most concerned about regarding the Internet of Things (IoT)? The group agreed that the top concern is internal and external interaction with the IoT. There are millions of devices in this modern era that are interconnected through the IoT, and their various matured functions are all incredibly impressive. However, they also pose varying levels of risks because of the data they are capable of storing and sharing. This is amplified by users whose devices all share the same password or weak passwords, particularly on company devices that may contain sensitive information. Use of devices connected to the IoT creates a borderless network that can potentially open up companies to data leaks and invasive attacks if careful steps are not taken. Recent DDoS attacks and hacks are evidence enough of the issue.
In order to tackle the issue of IoT attacks, companies have to set plans in place to mitigate any potential damage. These can significantly vary in their scale and severity, meaning plans must be versatile and open to a plethora of possibilities. Teams must add new aspects to their strategy to handle these IoT threats as companies add apps, mobile devices, and cloud networks to their repertoire of tools and products—and just using one tool will not cut it. Layers of protection, guidelines, system hygiene, and more are all necessary. Security is doing its best to catch up with the IoT, and for now it is manageable, but the group agrees that staying vigilant and consistently updating their strategy and tools is a must in order to stay ahead of leaks, threats, and attacks that come with this fast-paced, ever growing Internet of Things.