The internet of things is connecting more and more devices to the internet every day, and that includes devices in your office or business. While this can increase efficiency and productivity, it also creates new security risks. Here are some tips to help you protect your company IoT devices:
1. Keep Them Updated
One of the best ways to protect your IoT devices is to keep them up-to-date with the latest security patches. Manufacturers are constantly releasing new updates to address security vulnerabilities, so it’s important to install them as soon as they’re available.
2. Use Strong Passwords
Another way to protect your IoT devices is to use strong passwords. Many people choose easy-to-guess passwords for their devices, which can make them easy targets for hackers. Choose passwords that are at least eight characters long and include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
3. Use a VPN
A virtual private network (VPN) can also help to protect your IoT devices. A VPN encrypts all of the data that’s sent between your device and the internet, making it much more difficult for hackers to intercept and steal it.
4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication is an additional layer of security that can be used to protect your IoT devices. With this method, you’ll need to enter a code that’s sent to your phone or email in addition to your password. This makes it much harder for hackers to gain access to your device.
5. Monitor Your Devices
It’s also important to monitor your IoT devices for suspicious activity. Keep an eye out for unusual behaviour, such as unexpected data usage or strange error messages. If you notice anything unusual, make sure to change your passwords and contact your manufacturer or service provider right away.
6. Be Cautious With Public Wi-Fi
If you use your IoT devices on public Wi-Fi, be sure to take extra precaution. Hackers can easily set up fake Wi-Fi networks in public places, such as coffee shops or airports. If you connect to one of these networks, they may be able to intercept the data being sent between your device and the internet.
To stay safe, only connect to trusted Wi-Fi networks and make sure that your device is using a VPN.
7. Educate Your Employees
Finally, it’s important to educate your employees about the risks of using IoT devices. Make sure they understand the importance of keeping their devices updated and using strong passwords. You should also remind them to be cautious when using public Wi-Fi and to report any suspicious activity.
8. Have A Plan
Despite your best efforts, there’s always a chance that your IoT devices could be hacked. That’s why it’s important to have a plan in place in case of an incident.
Your plan should include steps for how to respond to a breach, such as changing passwords and contacting your manufacturer or service provider. You should also have a backup plan for if your devices are lost or stolen.
9. Choose Trusted Manufacturers
When selecting IoT devices for your business, it’s important to choose products from trusted manufacturers. Do some research to make sure that the company has a good reputation and offers strong security features.
10. Work With A Reputable Provider
If you’re using an IoT service provider, make sure to choose a reputable one. Read reviews and compare different providers to find one that offers good customer service and strong security measures.
By following these tips, you can help to protect your company’s IoT devices from hackers. Remember to keep them updated, use strong passwords, and enable two-factor authentication, and a safe and secure internet like Hawaiian Telcom. You should also educate your employees about the risks and have a plan in place in case of an incident.
