With the ever-growing number of connected devices on the market, has come the need for stringent cyber security measures in order to safeguard them. Cyber security has always played an important role in technology, but it has taken on an added importance with connected devices. This is due to the fact that the impact of a cyber attack is no longer limited to one user or device, and can have serious repercussions on an entire network and population.

The expansion of the IoT landscape has paved the way for products to collect more information than ever before. This amount of data collected across the IoT ecosystem underscores the need for a rigorous cyber security plan. There have been several examples in recent years of cyber criminals infiltrating connected systems and using that access as a gateway to infiltrate other systems that contained personal information of customers and consumers. It is important to keep in mind that, although cyber criminals may not want the data that a product collects, they may want the data that a product is connected to.

Protecting a connected device or system requires an understanding of the risks and potential impact of a cyber attack. Conducting a vulnerability assessment allows developers and manufacturers to gain an in-depth understanding of potential risks of their products and how to minimize them without compromising design. This vulnerability assessment will then serve as a guide for implementing the appropriate measures to safeguard the product.

While some may think that a cyber attack only impacts the connected device that is initially infiltrated, cyber attacks can have far reaching consequences. Infiltration of lighting controls, industrial equipment, and building automation equipment can extend beyond nuisance issues and an endanger safety. For this reason, it is crucial that cyber security not be a one-off process. It must be part of an organization’s standard operating procedures in order to protect both the IoT ecosystem and its users. Regular evaluation of products and staying up to date on the latest cyber security threats can help ensure continued security.

For recommendations on securing networks, data privacy, and more, visit Intertek’s Cyber Security Checklist.