IoT Security Testing

 IoT means the Internet of Things. IoT devices refer to non-standard computing devices that connect wirelessly to a network. IoT devices have the ability to transmit data. E.g., smart TVs, intelligent security cameras, smart toys, smart speakers, smart appliances, and wearables like watches, headphones, etc. IoT devices can be remotely monitored and controlled. IoT devices are physical objects that are designed to interact with the real world. These devices include a sensor, an integrated CPU, a network adapter, and firmware which are usually built in open source platforms. In simple words, IoT is a network of devices that are connected to the internet. IoT is not only about embedded devices, it comprises an ecosystem of device hardware, connectivity, system integration, security, IoT platform providers, application development, and data storage. 

IoT Security Testing 

IoT devices are connected directly to the internet, hence they can be an easy target for manipulation. They might be used as a medium to disrupt the functionality of an organization’s network. Hence reliable security standards for IoT devices are of utmost importance for an organization or individuals. 

IoT Security Testing is the process of testing the IoT devices for any security vulnerabilities that might exist in the network which might be exploited by hackers to steal information, modify data or access the network for malicious activities, identity thefts, financial losses, etc. 

Why is IoT Security Testing Important: 

The world of IoT is undoubtedly the future of technology. With the rise in the popularity of IoT products, the number of vulnerabilities in these devices has also increased. Therefore IoT Security Testing has become extremely necessary to protect the reputation of businesses and win the trust of customers by exploring the vulnerabilities in IoT devices and patching them. 

IoT security architecture is of utmost importance in today’s world of connected platforms. Our experts in G-Info Technology Solutions Pvt Ltd carry out detailed architecture assessments of the complete IoT solutions ecosystem that includes devices, cloud, web and mobile applications, and APIs from a security point of view to make the IoT solution more robust. Our cybersecurity experts carry out end-to-end security testing of the IoT embedded device with an external hacker’s perspective, find the vulnerabilities, and suggest solutions to remediate the flaws and help secure the underlying embedded hardware. 

We offer end-to-end IoT security testing that will help your organization to successfully balance risk with market pressures. Our solutions provide 

• Protection assurance from microsystems to cloud infrastructure. They will help your enterprise to speed up innovation and climb mountains with confidence. 

• Leverage the industry standards, performing all kinds of IoT security evaluations. 
• Help position your IoT mechanism as the most invulnerable and innovative in the market, and keep security as a unique selling point to boost sales and gain advertisements. 

Types of Internet of Things Security Testing: 

The Internet of Things is all around us. Now it has become evitable in all walks of life like our homes, offices, educational institutions, public places, roads, administrative offices, etc. We also hear many stories of them being exploited by malicious entities. To keep them safe the most common types of IoT security testing are: 

• Threat Modelling: 

It is a process for determining what is the threat model in the IoT ecosystem and how a device might be breached. Eg., A security camera might be breached by a third party for spying or viewing images for malicious purposes. 

• IoT Penetration Testing: 

It involves simulated attacks on the IoT system by security professionals to explore vulnerabilities in the IoT ecosystem. The vulnerabilities when explored are properly remedied. 

• Firmware Analysis: 

Firmware is software just like a computer application or program, but it is used on embedded devices or small computers with a dedicated function. E.g., heart monitors routers, smartphones, routers,s, etc. Firmware analysis includes extracting and testing it for buffer overflows, backdoors, or other security issues. 

Tips for the safety of IoT devices

A lot of research is done for finding secure designs and techniques that IoT devices can use for safety. Some points to keep in mind to keep IoT devices secure and free from risks are: 

• Always change default credentials. 

• Implement secure booting 
• Regularly perform IoT security testing 
• Implement strong encryption for data storage and data transportation. 
• Update, manage and track your devices regularly. 

Summary 

Like all technologies, the Internet of Things (IoT) technology is also evolving rapidly. This has led to the introduction of new devices which have made our lives easier like home automation systems, patient monitoring systems, smart meters, and wearable devices. But at the end of the day as they are connected to the internet directly they are vulnerable to malicious attacks so it is important to understand the security risks that come along with them. 

Thus IoT security testing is to be carried out regularly to find security vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit to access your network, steal crucial information or modify your data.