EU, US, and Now NATO: Big Changes in IoT Cybersecurity
Here’s why IoT cybersecurity is undergoing a renaissance.
Today, the Internet of Things (IoT) is both incredible and vulnerable. Apu Pavithran of Hexnode explores why connected device cybersecurity is about to change forever.
The amazing possibilities of a world where everything is connected are being overshadowed by the risk of hackers with malicious intentions, who take advantage of the very devices designed to enhance our lives.
The recent series of cybersecurity strategies adopted by the European Union (EU), the United States (US), and even the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) against IoT hackers not only represents a response to a growing threat but also demonstrates a resolute commitment to protecting our digital future.
Why Device Cybersecurity Matters
Looking ahead, there are very real risks if nothing is done to stop bad actors in IoT. The possibility of significant disruptions grows uncomfortably apparent with the increasing incorporation of such devices into critical infrastructure. Imagine a situation where a hacker takes over the smart grid of a city, resulting in power disruptions. Or consider the havoc that could be wrought by compromising medical IoT devices, putting patient lives at risk.
Further, the data privacy implications are immense. Connected devices collect a wealth of sensitive information, often without the explicit consent of users. From personal health data to behavioral patterns, this is a treasure trove for hackers. The exposure of such data not only jeopardizes individual privacy but also enables highly targeted and sophisticated cyberattacks.
The level of connectivity accompanied by IoT devices also poses a systemic risk. A breach in one device could cascade across an entire network, affecting other devices and systems. This interconnectedness amplifies the potential impact of attacks and makes containment and mitigation more challenging. Therefore, addressing IoT security is not just about safeguarding individual devices but protecting the entire digital ecosystem.
See More: 5 Lesser-Known Cyber Threats That You Should Be Aware
New Rules To Fight Hackers
Today, the introduction of more devices across different areas of society is resulting in far more hacking activity. In fact, during the last five years, the frequency of IoT assaults has tripled. The IoT landscape has expanded significantly from smart homes and medical devices to industrial systems and transportation networks. Unfortunately, many of these devices were developed with a primary focus on functionality and cost-efficiency, often overlooking robust cybersecurity measures.
Now, especially with the rise of the smart home and remote work, governments are enacting regulations to lessen the likelihood of hackability. Europe’s Cyber Resilience Act, proposed last September and still up for parliamentary debate, is the first major step toward data privacy and security in IoT. The regulation aims to set baseline cybersecurity standards for connected devices that require continuous updates throughout their entire lifespan. This regulation seeks to boost digital product security, create a thorough framework for hardware and software makers, enhance transparency, and ensure safe products for customers. Additionally, it hopes to reduce potential attack points by forbidding the sale of products with known vulnerabilities across the continent.
Then, on the other side of the Atlantic, the US ushered in its own cybersecurity rules earlier this year. The National Cybersecurity Strategy (NCS) highlights the importance of integrating security measures right from the design stage. Moreover, it mandates a labeling system for devices based on their level of security. This makes it possible for customers to contrast the cybersecurity safeguards provided by various IoT products, giving a commercial incentive for increased security throughout the whole ecosystem. NCS further enables the private sector to disrupt threats. This includes using diplomatic, economic, and military tools to pressure and deter malicious cyber actors.
Finally, in the footsteps of the EU and the US, NATO is doubling down on private-public collaborations to jumpstart security innovation. NATO’s Defense Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) became operational in June, and its first proposal was to address pressing military and cybersecurity issues. DIANA brings together governments, businesses, and institutions to collaborate with startups and other innovators to incorporate new technologies and shape standards. One of the proposals was creating a secure and unified framework for monitoring and managing IoT devices deployed for military applications. Even though the effort is still in its early phases, it is anticipated to considerably increase the security of NATO and its allies.
The trajectory is clear – the world’s foremost jurisdictions recognize the threat and are seeking to create stronger, safer devices.
See More: Nation-State Cyber Attacks Against Critical Infrastructure
Empowering Businesses, Educating Users
It’s now up to businesses to answer the call and improve their own cybersecurity. While these regulations are a good start, they are still a year or two away from making a noticeable difference. In the interim, cybersecurity leaders and business decision-makers must act immediately to bolster their own posture.
This starts by implementing IoT device management platforms. These solutions allow businesses to centralize device monitoring, updates, and security controls. Solutions like Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) offer robust device management capabilities. Next, employing an Identity and Access Management (IAM) solution restricts access to IoT devices based on user roles and responsibilities. Additionally, segmenting devices on a separate network limits their access to critical systems. This prevents lateral movement within the corporate network and minimizes the damage in case of a breach.
Next, utilize security information and event management (SIEM) solutions and machine learning algorithms to detect abnormal device behavior and potential threats in real time. Finally, regularly assess the security of devices through penetration testing to proactively identify and address new vulnerabilities.
In addition to such tools, cybersecurity decision-makers must also bring employees along for the ride. Education campaigns and user-friendly security interfaces, for example, can go a long way in empowering individuals to become responsible digital citizens. Leaders open opportunities for a more robust and resilient IoT ecosystem by providing these solutions and guidelines to enterprises.
It’s heartening to see governments finally act on this issue. But, ultimately, top-down cybersecurity regulations are only half of the battle. To truly stop hackers in their tracks, businesses and enterprises must construct holistic ecosystems that engender trust.
Let’s look forward to the public and private sectors coming together to tighten endpoints and protect networks. With governments bringing manufacturers into line and businesses securing their attack surfaces, we are on the way toward a far safer future in IoT.
Do you think the recent government reforms will be enough to protect our future with IoT? Share with us on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn. We’d love to hear from you!
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