The Internet is such a vital part of the world, and these days, virtually anything can connect everyone to the internet. The Internet of Things is not anymore the stuff of science fiction novels, and common items and electrical appliances, like lamps and refrigerators, among many others, are now able to run with the Internet. Everyone is excited about them, but it seems that the devices also pose danger to users.
And the danger has to do with security. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has issued a public service announcement regarding the matter. The heading of the warning read, 'Internet of Things Poses Opportunities for Cybercime'. While the Internet of Things provides people with many benefits and conveniences, the potential for security risks is huge as well, notes Voltimum UK.
A possible IoT risk listed in the announcement includes the possibility of the Universal Plug and play Protocol to be exploited. Upon exploition, access to control IoT devices will be gained. Hackers can change configurations and run commands in the devices. As a result, they will be able to access private information within the device. With this exploitation, cyber actors will be able to engage in digital eavesdropping.
The advisory also pointed out that unsecured networks can enable cyber criminals to infiltrate private networks and similarly gain access to information with the devices. Passwords can also be exploited to send malicious content or steal identification details. "Email spam attacks are now being sent from home-networking routers, connected multi-media centres, televisions, and appliances with wireless network connections." The bulletin cited.
FBI cites more details on its official website. Visit www.fbi.gov for more information. IoT is certainly a big technological advancement, but users have to be wary about how they use their devices. A tip the bulletin advised customers is to regularly change default passwords to stronger ones to avoid potential risks.
