Understanding Security Challenges and Risks Associated with the Internet of Things

The Internet of Things (IoT) is an emerging technology that offers unprecedented opportunities for connecting people, processes, and data. Despite its multiple advantages, however, the IoT is still nascent and subject to security vulnerabilities. Adopting IoT devices therefore presents cybersecurity risks and challenges for manufacturers and users. Threat actors can invade users’ privacy and commit cybercrimes using tools that are controlled remotely. This white paper discusses IoT environments from a security perspective, including privacy concerns and major cyberthreats, and highlights some of the key challenges and risks these systems present for organizations, users, and security personnel. The paper also suggests measures that can be taken to remedy IoT security problems and explores what industry leaders are doing to encourage growth and safeguard privacy and security in IoT environments. Organizations should understand the necessity of engaging in ongoing monitoring and further development of IoT devices, detecting threats, and addressing those threats when they occur using the most up-to-date technological methods.