Identity theft, unauthorized access to your network, bank account fraud… A wide range of problems can arise if you fall victim to a cyberattack.
But do you know where they might come from?
In your email inboxes, on your phone, online, and even through downloadable apps, hackers are targeting you every day. You’re getting better and better at spotting scams. As a result, cybercriminals are looking for new ways to reach you, particularly through the Internet of Things.
What is the Internet of Things?
TheInternet of Things or IoT (Internet of Things in English) refers to the growing number of objects connected to the Internet, enabling communication between our so-called physical assets and their digital counterparts. These types of connections make it possible to gather new masses of data on the network and, consequently, new knowledge and forms of understanding. But they also provide hackers with a new gateway into your network.
USB drives, external hard drives, CDs, as well as watches, bracelets, light bulbs, scales, coffee makers, toys, speakers, voice assistants, security cameras… All of these can serve as potential entry points into your network for a cybercriminal if you’re not careful.
According to cybersecurity experts at Kaspersky, attacks targeting IoT devices doubled in 2021. The sheer number of connected devices, combined with often weak security, explains why these devices are increasingly being hijacked by hackers.
These devices present a massive opportunity for attackers and a huge risk for organizations that are not always aware of how many devices are connected to their network.
What steps should be taken to protect connected devices from cyberattacks?
Here are a few tips for protecting your devices:
- Do your research before buying: check out user guides and the device’s privacy policy before making your decision.
- Install software updates as soon as possible: if a vulnerability is detected, the updates will apply patches to secure your device.
- Change the password after the first setup: Hackers usually know the device’s default password, so you should change it as soon as possible.
Use a strong password that includes uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. - Reset the connected device as soon as it shows signs of malfunction: this will remove any malware on the device but will not prevent a new infection.
- Avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi: cybercriminals can use this connection to infiltrate your network and access your personal data.
- Practice good “digital hygiene”: Log out of your devices when you’re not using them. Regularly delete your data, such as your browsing history.
Don’t assume your devices aren’t important enough to be hacked—cybercriminals will try every possible means to infiltrate your network.
The innovative solution offered by Avant de Cliquer will help your users develop cybersecurity habits. Check out our new tool, the USB drive test, and teach them to be wary of objects that look harmless.
