Internet of Things and Cyber Security: Protecting Devices from Hackers
You might think that cybersecurity is only really needed for computers and mobile phones. But the truth is that every device connected to the internet, no matter how mundane it is, is vulnerable to hackers. Keeping the internet safe for users is now more complex than ever because it’s not simply computers that need to be protected. Here’s a look at how the Internet of Things (IoT) is impacting cyber security and what can be done to help outwit those who would use it to their advantage.
What Exactly is the Internet of Things?
The IoT is a broad term used to describe an item that can access the internet. It could be a printer that uses a wireless network to receive documents. It could also be something as innocent as a child’s teddy bear. Whatever the functionality of an item, if a hacker can gain access, they can use all of the same functions, sometimes undetected.
For example, in 2016, a massive DDoS attack (distributed denial of service) was launched on most of the US. It prevented users from reaching popular and wide-spread websites. It baffled many people to discover that the attack had been formed from a botnet army made up of simple devices, including refrigerators and many of them were DVRs. All it took was an infection of malicious code and the botnet was launched.
Why Would Someone Want to Hack a DVR?
The reason behind these attacks are sometimes not as clear to discern as other forms of malware of ransomware. If a hacker is stealing credit card numbers or medical records, it’s easy to figure they just want money. But blocking people from news websites with DVRs? It gets more complicated.
Each device functions in a different way and could make it a target for its own reason. The DVRs and refrigerators made handy “zombiebots” in the bot army. The objects had little function other than recording TVs shows or keeping food cold. But since they were internet capable they were able to be misused with the help of some malicious code.
Sophisticated devices are in danger of even more nefarious measures. The media started reporting last year that hackers were taking advantage of vulnerabilities in baby monitor systems to talk to children at night, watch the family through the camera system, and other disturbing behavior. Motives for this seem less obvious, beyond a desire to cause mayhem.
What Can I Do to Help Combat Hackers?
While many people are happy to stay on the sidelines of cybersecurity and try to use numbers and letters in their passwords, others want to take a more active role in helping keep the internet safe. If you’re one of these people, there’s great news.
The best route to success in this field is through education, certifications, and hands-on experience. A combination of these three can help you to put together the best resume possible to wow potential employers. Many people begin their journey with a degree in cybersecurity or a computer science related field. There, they lay the groundwork for a solid foundation in cybersecurity expertise.
Are you ready to take the first step in your journey? If you are interested in earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer and Information Science with a Major in Cyber and Network Security - Cybersecurity Track, consider ECPI University for the education you’ll need. For more information, connect with a friendly admissions advisor today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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