Who would have thought 20 years ago that our phones could be used to steal passwords, money, email accounts and personal details like fingerprint and heart rate data? Besides computers and cell phones, every day more and more things are being connected to the internet, becoming the "Internet of Things". More connectivity creates more digital vulnerability.
Welcome to the age of IoT, where everything digital is connected to every aspect of our lives, homes and offices. With developments in Wi-Fi networks and devices happening at a dangerously fast pace, projections at the time suggested over 40 billion active wireless devices by 2020. The target level for cybercrime has risen with it.
The IoT security gap
The vulnerabilities found in IoT are staggering because of the issues that come with rapid growth. Development of IoT is another example of security lagging behind innovation. Some of the most worrying cases involve medical devices with consequences on patient health, and connected vehicles where successful hacks can reduce passenger safety. When hacks can result in deaths, suddenly the matter gets attention.
Where things are going
The good news is that IoT security is now a recognised concern. Several measures have been taken to bridge the gap at the device level. Major corporations have had to deal with IoT security and are joining the cause. Research is being conducted to enhance IoT security.
What needs to happen
We need a sound plan for installing security updates on IoT devices. Each consumer will likely soon own tens, if not hundreds, of connected devices. Manually installing updates is out of the question. Automatic updates from manufacturers carry their own risks. Proper safeguards must prevent updating interfaces from themselves becoming security holes.
Originally published 8 May 2017. Migrated to the new IRC site in 2026.