Cybersecurity risks of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in the workplace

Known as the Internet of Things or IoT, it is a concept that elevates the connectivity of devices of all kinds such as security cameras, home appliances, lights, etc. to the Internet. But is it safe in a company or workplace? Here we will tell you!

Risk 1: Device vulnerability

One of the most important points to consider is the fact that since they are connected to the Internet, there is a greater risk of a hacker getting into them to breach their security, take control of them, or infect them with malware.

For this reason, it is important to consider that different types of home automation devices can be vulnerable in terms of security. Many do not have the highest computer security standards, which can make them easy targets for attack.

Risk 2: Theft of information

Can you imagine a hacker taking control of your company’s security cameras? It would be very dangerous! Because that way they could track when you are or aren’t in offices, factories, etc. Which can increase the risk of other crimes like theft.

Furthermore, many of these devices are capable of collecting all kinds of information that, if they fall into the wrong hands, can be used for all kinds of crimes. Such information can even be used for identity theft, i.e. impersonation.

Risk 3: DDoS attacks

IoT devices can be used in DDoS attacks (distributed denial of service attacks) that can affect network performance. This is because hackers can sneak onto the internet, so finding a free VPN for PC is essential, as you can close that door and prevent hackers from sneaking in.

This will prevent cybercriminals from using the internet to generate denial-of-service attacks to render your devices inoperable. Just imagine if suddenly your automation systems are disabled due to DDoS. You would lose a lot of money!

Risk 4: Malware infection

Another of the most common types of attacks on Internet of Things devices is malware infection. These range from spyware used to spy on users to the same viruses that can destroy your hardware and software.

As we have already told you, the loss of devices connected to the Internet of Things can represent big losses. You wouldn’t just lose remote control, for example, and process automation. On the other hand, there are security risks and privacy violations, as well as annoying situations like not controlling the lights, air conditioning, etc.

Risk 5: Intrusion into company networks

If you’re unlucky enough to run into a hacker, they can use your smart device and IoT as a gateway to other private internet networks.
For this reason, it is worth considering cyber security tips to protect your equipment from any type of intrusion. And that’s just to imagine what would happen if, in addition to breaking your intelligent security system, these hackers sneak into other devices connected to the same Wi-Fi network. It would be very dangerous!

Risk 6: Damage

Although this risk does not go hand in hand with hackers directly, it is one of the points that we have to consider. This is because the devices can pose a hazard which in turn can lead to potential risks to the workspace.

For example, if a smart device overheats, such as a heater connected to the Internet of Things, it can end up in a fire. There may even be a case where hackers intentionally break into the equipment causing a malfunction that could end in a much worse disaster like a fire.

Risk 7: Remote control

Another risk we discovered is the possibility of hackers breaking their control. In other words, there are cybercriminals with the ability to remotely take control of any device connected to the Internet, from fans to cameras with microphones.

The fact that a hacker remotely takes control of a device implies many risks, from the theft of information to the possibility of using it by taking away their work. Here we can see just how capable they are from small shenanigans like turning off lights to causing real damage and headaches.