Understanding the Internet of Things

The Internet of Things (IoT) concept is to connect any device by turning on / off the button on the Internet and other connected devices.

It's a great network of connected things to people - everything that collects and shares information about It, how they are used, and the environment around them. This includes a number of objects, including Smartphones, smart home appliances such as smart refrigerators, self-driving cars, wearable fitness devices, and more.


Brief History

It has long been the custom of people to place devices, collect data, and send signals from one point to another. In earlier times of war, when enemies approached the empire, onlookers would select a series of signs or flames to warn the decision-makers that the threat was imminent. Over time, institutions have used sensors or smaller devices, but technology that allows sensors to return to central service using something like motion, fire, radio signals, cables, or, perhaps, a satellite. Now, the Internet is a major service where all these sensors can transfer information back to its administrator.

The internet is abundant and easy to use. With a framework like this, it does not take many resources to place a device that collects data elsewhere in the world and finds information on it. Signing devices can grow in variety, in addition to their high-performance purposes, and provide signals in many different operating conditions.

For example, weather warning systems are now more sophisticated. They monitor regional natural disasters, warn of impending earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, typhoons, and floods. After the Big Thompson Flood of Colorado, in 1976, a series of signs were erected to monitor the river's height and to communicate with people living near where the river was dangerous. Similarly, many large cities in the United States now have sensors to point out to authorities when and where a gun is fired.

Today, we enter the age of small devices connected to the Internet. The so-called Internet of Things can grow richer as it enters a time of joy and happiness. Now, instead of going to the rain rate or answering the door in person or through an intercom, the rain gauge and door hinge can be connected to the internet and send signals to a person's phone.


Advantages of IoT

This interconnection has brought great benefits to consumers in terms of productivity, convenience, time, and cost-saving, and high quality of life.

1) Remote monitoring

Users can access data and information easily, remotely, and in real-time, reducing the need for physical activity.

2) Automation and Control

With Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communications, devices can stay connected and manage daily tasks without the need for human intervention.

3) Predictability Analysis

With IoT, users can know things in advance. E.g., In health care, sensory experts analyze health conditions and lifestyle choices and recommend preventative measures to reduce the incidence of disease.


IoT security challenges

According to Business Insider forecast, there will be more than 64 billion IoT devices by 2025. A few IoT security challenges that need to be addressed in order for us to make full use of IoT capabilities.

1) Outdated resources and software

Most IoT devices don't get the right updates or never get one. This means that products become vulnerable to attack when hackers get bugs or security issues.

2) The use of weak and automatic evidence

Many IoT companies sell devices and provide automated guarantees that are also easy to find and widely used by hackers to make powerful attacks to loosen up these devices and use them for malicious purposes.

3) Malware and ransomware

The rapid rise in IoT products makes cyberattack permits incomprehensible. Cybercriminals have been able to lock consumers out of their IoT devices.

4) Data security and privacy

With extended connectivity, data protection has become more difficult as it is transmitted between multiple devices in a few seconds, which can lead to data leaks.


Ways to protect IoT devices

IoT can bring a lot of benefits to our lives and monitor potential threats, it is very important to protect your IoT devices in your smart home to prevent cyber-attacks.

 

Here are some ways to help protect your smart home:

1) Change usernames and passwords

Cybercriminals already know the default passwords that come with most IoT products. Select devices that allow you to change the default password.

2) Unique passwords for Wi-Fi networks and device accounts

Use different, complex passwords made up of letters, numbers, and symbols. Use a strong encryption method (such as WPA2) when setting up Wi-Fi network access to keep your network secure.

3) Disable features you may not need

IoT devices come with a variety of services such as remote access, which are usually enabled automatically. If you do not need it, be sure to disable it. Keep your software up to date. Don't delay installing software updates, as 04 may be a security feature error.

4) Ensure physical safety

Make sure IoT devices are stored in a safe place where attackers will not suddenly climb up and interfere with them. If the device supports interrupting alarms such as CCTV cameras, enable this feature.


Reference

https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/sg/Documents/risk/sea-risk-cyber-101- part12.pdf

https://www.bmc.com/blogs/iot-internet-of-things/#

https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/internet-of-things