Managing Risk With IoT

The Internet of Things, or IoT, is a hot topic in today’s tech world. The benefits of IoT technology for businesses are well documented. Claims of increased efficiency and futuristic automations may be true, but they overlook a few things. As businesses implement IoT, there are some security risks to consider.

What is IoT?

IoT is an interconnected web of electronic devices, each of which communicates with others to create a system that can vary in size depending on your needs. For example, a small business may incorporate a connected network of security technology, such as smart locks to manage building access, security cameras to monitor activity, and temperature and climate control devices to monitor storage rooms filled with sensitive materials — all of which can be accessed and managed from any device.

For an enterprise business, connected devices can number in the hundreds, or even thousands. While IoT is undoubtedly useful for improving efficiency and communication across any network, it isn’t without risks. Every device is a potential point of access to the entire system.

Cybersecurity and IoT

Defending a digital network from cybercriminals requires careful access point management. The very nature of IoT means it has more access points than a traditional computer network, and each must be properly secured against malicious actors.

Because IoT is still a relatively new technology space, it has a few blind spots in areas where more established networks are protected. Security is by far the most serious of these. Few people stop to think about the cybersecurity risks associated with conveniences like office lights turning on when they enter a room, or automated notifications from a security system, but when these systems are tied closely together, the risks can multiply. The novelty and efficiency benefits of IoT technology has it gaining market traction despite its vulnerability to cyberattack.

The IoT makes it possible to connect to the system from the outside, which creates an even bigger risk for a business network that allows hundreds of employees to connect with their personal devices. The addition of one outsider might be lost in a sea of verified users. Outsiders might not even mean to connect, but an unsecured wireless network plus a smartphone’s auto-connect feature allows for unintended connections. Even without malicious intent, an unauthorized connection is a cybersecurity risk.

Manage the risks

IoT has already proven itself as a valuable tool to increase efficiency and make our lives easier. Its use will only amplify in the coming years, making it imperative for businesses to proactively manage the risks associated with this interconnected web of technology. While every IoT system is different, there are a few universal guidelines to follow, including:

  • Understand the attack surface. IoT has a much larger attack surface than an average computer network, meaning there are more access points throughout the web of devices that could pose cybersecurity risks. Understanding the attack surface is the first step to defending it.
  • Defend against known attacks and vulnerabilities. As with most things, research is your friend. If you know the common attacks against devices in your system, it’s easier to defend against them. It’s a good idea to get familiar with each device and its unique vulnerabilities.
  • Detect and adapt to new threats. It’s critical to have a system in place for detecting cybersecurity threats. While some threats are predictable, cybercriminals are as quick to adapt as cybersecurity defenses are. Be aware, flexible, and adaptable to defend against new threats.
  • Use automation to your advantage. Automated threat detection and defense against known attacks saves time and reduces errors. While it’s still necessary to have a person address new threats and maintain automated systems, automation can reduce the overall workload for your IT team.
  • Implement zero-trust policies. Be sure to implement a zero-trust policy for IoT connections. Users should have access to what they need and nothing else. Managing access through password protection and user-based permissions is a good way to break the attack surface into more manageable, more defendable pieces.

Cybersecurity is one of the first things to consider with any new technology, and the Internet of Things is no exception. A large attack surface, numerous blind spots, and a tendency toward reckless adoption make IoT a risky investment when not managed properly. With the right implementation strategy that focuses on cybersecurity, IoT can become a powerful asset to any company.

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Structured cabling

Structured cabling is the foundation of technology expansion and digital transformation throughout business and industry. Structured cabling is defined by six factors that form a standardized framework for cable installation. These factors are derived from cable distribution guidelines issued by the American National Standards Institute and Telecommunications Industry Association (ANSI/TIA-568). They include:

  1. Entrance facilities (EF)
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  3. Backbone, or riser, cabling
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  6. Work area (WA)

These standards make installing and managing networks of cables cost-efficient, convenient, and easy to navigate. With everything organized, human error is less likely to contribute to unexpected downtime, and maintenance is easier to perform.

Structured cabling is also effective for systems integration. Integrated systems enhance visibility and are easier to navigate and maintain.

Security

Security is a top concern for businesses. Integrating cameras with access control is the most efficient way to be proactive in monitoring a business. Live views, pre-determined alerts, and artificial intelligence (AI) help human security teams identify and locate potential security threats. With the ability to monitor security through a mobile or desktop app, teams can monitor real-time events and send alerts to other team members for review. In addition to cameras and access control, environmental sensors have increased in popularity and provide peace of mind with real-time alerts that equipment is functioning properly.

VoIP

Voice over internet protocol (VoIP) is an internet-based communications system capable of managing all company communication, from phone calls to chat functionality. Most VoIP systems work with existing programs, such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom, enabling consistent, consolidated telecommunications. These systems can be on- or off-premises, or a combination of both, and can be easily configured to meet different needs. Often, cost savings are found during the exploratory phase of implementing a VoIP system.

VoIP can be customized to work anywhere and supports remote work models. It gives administrators more flexibility to make changes to the system rather than rely on outside vendors. Flexible, custom options help employees communicate more effectively and increase collaboration, productivity, and scalability.

A/V

With the technology demands arising from the pandemic, audiovisual (A/V) equipment transitioned from useful presentation tool to modern business necessity. Ongoing development of A/V solutions is largely focused on enabling virtual meetings and communications. As many employees continue to work remotely, so A/V equipment and software must increasingly apply to a dispersed workforce.

On-site A/V equipment continues to support in-person meetings and client presentations, and A/V technology development is expanding beyond presentation and communication to facilitate collaboration. Hotels are implementing A/V tools for conferences and other events, and schools continue to expand the use of interactive technology to engage students — and their mobile devices — in enhanced learning opportunities.

Technology management

Constant innovation requires adaptivity and a forward-thinking approach to technology management, and these four areas — structured cabling, security, VoIP, and A/V — merely scratch the surface of technology management demand in today’s business world. It’s a lot for overwhelmed IT and facility management teams to handle without help.

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