IoT security refers to the practices, tools, and policies used to protect internet-connected devices and the networks they run on. These devices include sensors, smart meters, industrial controls, medical equipment, cameras, and more. Securing them is essential because most were not designed with strong security in mind.
Why IoT Devices Are Vulnerable
IoT devices often run on minimal hardware and basic software. Many lack encryption, authentication, or update mechanisms. Once connected, they can become easy entry points for attackers looking to breach networks, steal data, or disrupt operations.
Common threats include:
- Default credentials left unchanged
- Unpatched firmware with known vulnerabilities
- Weak or absent access controls
- Insecure communication over public networks
An attacker who compromises a single IoT device can use it to move laterally across the network, launch botnet attacks, or collect sensitive data.
Enterprise Impact of IoT Security
IoT is used in manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, smart cities, and more. Each use case increases the number of endpoints that need protection. A failure in IoT security can result in physical disruptions, financial loss, or safety risks.
For example, in a smart factory, compromised IoT sensors can manipulate production data. In healthcare, unprotected medical devices can expose patient records or disrupt treatment workflows.
IoT Security in India
With the rapid growth of smart infrastructure in India, IoT deployments are accelerating. At the same time, cybersecurity maturity has not always kept pace. Regulations are emerging, but enterprises need to act now to reduce risk.
What You Should Know
You cannot manage IoT risk the same way you manage laptops or phones. IoT security requires network segmentation, device visibility, continuous monitoring, and strong identity policies.
Proactive helps businesses assess their IoT footprint, identify vulnerabilities, and enforce zero-trust policies using solutions like Cisco Cyber Vision and Secure Network Analytics. We build secure, scalable architectures so your connected systems stay protected without slowing down operations.
