Beware the Source of Your Internet of Things (IoT) Devices

Internet of things

In recent years, the Internet of Things (IoT) has exploded in popularity. As more people and businesses purchase smart home and other internet-connected devices, it is important to be aware of the source of these devices. Unfortunately, IoT vendors don’t always have our best interests in mind when designing their products. Here we’ll review the significance of understanding the origin of your IoT devices and the reasons it is crucial to exercise caution.

What is the Internet of Things or IoT?

The “Internet of Things” (IoT) refers to the network of physical devices and objects that are connected to the internet, allowing them to collect and exchange data. The use of IoT devices is more and more popular as they provide numerous benefits, such as improved efficiency, convenience, and cost savings. The provenance of these devices has, however, come under increasing scrutiny due to the growth in popularity of IoT devices and the volume of data being gathered and shared.

The origin of an IoT device can have a major impact on its security. IoT devices are produced by a wide range of companies, and depending on where they were made, they will have varying levels of security. Devices from reputable companies are more likely to have higher levels of security than devices from unknown manufacturers. Those trustworthy businesses tend to use more secure components, better quality assurance procedures, and more knowledgeable staff. So besides being more secure, their IoT products can have better performance and reliability.  This is why before making an investment in an IoT device, you should think about where it came from.

China and IoT Devices

Due to the production and export of millions of connected devices by numerous Chinese companies, China has emerged as an IoT market leader. Unfortunately, these devices are often lacking in terms of quality, security, and privacy. Many of the devices are not properly tested and contain vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers.  Cyber criminals can potentially get access to private information and perhaps even gain full control of a device.  If access is gained to a device on a corporate network, that could open the door to accessing the rest of the network.  This is especially concerning when these devices are used to control critical infrastructure or in healthcare settings.

The problem with IoT devices from China, such as those from Hikvision, is that they pose a significant security risk for users. Although the company claims that its products are secure, it has been found that they have vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit. This is largely due to lax Chinese government regulations and oversight regarding the goods produced by its businesses, which allows companies like Hikvision to produce devices without the required security measures.

In conclusion, it is important to be careful when purchasing IoT devices. Be sure to do your research on the source of the device and the company that manufactures it. Be aware of any potential security risks that the device may pose and always follow best practices for device security.  To take your organization’s IT security to the next level, contact BSC Solutions Group today for expert advice from experienced professionals.