What is IoT cybersecurity?

What does IoT stand for? 

IoT stands for the internet of things — a vast network of smart devices that collect, process, and transmit data. These range from smart home appliances and various wearable devices to hardware devices and sophisticated industrial tools. IoT aims to bridge the physical and digital worlds, capturing real-world data and sending it to other devices for analysis, automation, or decision-making.

You'll find IoT everywhere. Hospitals use it to monitor patients, factories to improve operational efficiency, cities to manage traffic, and homes to automate daily routines. However, this efficiency comes at a cost. Internet of things security risks include data breaches and even full-scale system takeovers. The more connected we become, the more critical it is to keep IoT devices secure.

How IoT devices connect to networks

An IoT device can communicate with networks in different ways, depending on its function and environment. Some of the most common connection methods are listed below.

• Wi-Fi is the most popular connection for home and office devices.
• Bluetooth is used for short-range connections, such as wearable devices and smart home gadgets.
• Cellular (4G/5G) enables remote connectivity for smartphones connected to mobile networks and industrial IoT applications.
• Zigbee/Z-Wave are low-power wireless protocols designed for smart home automation.
• Ethernet is used in industrial and enterprise environments for stable, wired connections.
• LoRaWAN and NB-IoT are low-power, long-range networks optimized for smart cities and large-scale IoT deployments.

What is IoT in cybersecurity? 

While cybersecurity is a broad term, IoT cybersecurity focuses on protecting smart devices and networks from cyber threats. IoT devices handle sensitive data and, in many cases, control critical infrastructure. That's why their security is essential to preventing hackers from stealing information, disrupting operations, or taking control of entire systems.

What is an example of IoT security?

A common example of IoT security is network segmentation — keeping IoT devices on a separate network to limit potential damage if one gets compromised. For instance, many businesses set up a separate Wi-Fi network for devices like smart printers and security cameras to isolate them from corporate systems.

How does IoT cybersecurity work?

IoT cybersecurity aims to protect connected devices and networks from attacks, data breaches, and system takeovers. Since IoT ecosystems include everything from cloud services to outdated legacy devices, security needs to cover a lot of ground. Key elements include:

• Device authentication: Ensuring only trusted devices can access networks.
• Encryption: Protecting data transmitted between devices.
• Regular software updates: Fixing security vulnerabilities in IoT firmware.
• Network monitoring: Detecting unusual activity or potential IoT attacks.
• Zero-trust architecture: Restricting access based on strict security protocols.

IoT vs. IIoT

While IoT is used in consumer applications like smart homes and wearables, IIoT (industrial internet of things) is focused on industrial automation, manufacturing, and infrastructure. IIoT devices often require stronger security due to their role in critical sectors. For a deeper comparison, check out our article on IoT vs. IIoT.

Why is IoT cybersecurity important?

The more we rely on IoT, the bigger the risks. Businesses, governments, and healthcare systems have all reaped the benefits of IoT — but every connection is also a potential entry point for hackers. A single weak link in a network can lead to stolen data, disrupted operations, or cyberattacks on other devices or an entire network.

Take a smart lock on a front door, for example. If hackers access it, they could disable the lock, leaving the home unsecured. Now, scale that risk up to hospitals or power grids — IoT cybersecurity is key to preventing potentially dire consequences on a regional or national scale.

That's why businesses and governmental institutions must enforce strict security protocols, follow IoT security standards, and continuously monitor for threats. Strong security measures protect data, devices, networks, and people's lives.

The role of cybersecurity in IoT systems

Without strong security features, the convenience of smart gadgets turns into a vulnerability. Cybersecurity plays a critical role in the IoT ecosystem for a few key reasons:

• Data privacy. IoT gadgets gather a lot of personal and sensitive information. Without strong security, users' data can be stolen, leading to identity theft and surveillance.
• Operational reliability. From smart factories to connected cars, IoT keeps things running smoothly — until a cyber threat takes them down. Robust security ensures these devices do their job without interruptions.
• Regulatory compliance. Industries like healthcare and finance aren't just encouraged to secure their IoT systems — they must. Meeting cybersecurity regulations protects the people who rely on these services every day.

The growing risks of IoT devices

According to NordVPN's Research Lab, many IoT gadgets are vulnerable due to poor security practices and outdated software. Despite growing awareness of IoT security issues, cybersecurity myths often lead users to underestimate potential threats. Although most respondents said they had some IoT device in their homes, around 25% don't take any measures to protect them.

IoT and cybersecurity vulnerabilities

We have all come to rely on IoT technology — but weak security makes these devices vulnerable to cybersecurity threats. Common vulnerabilities include the following.

Outdated software 

Many connected devices run on outdated firmware, leaving them vulnerable to known exploits. To avoid security threats, organizations should regularly check for updates, use automated patching tools, and follow secure patching protocols. 

Physical tampering

An IoT device placed in public spaces — like a security camera or industrial sensor — can be physically accessed and manipulated, disabled, or even replaced with a compromised version.

Supply chain attacks

IoT security starts long before a device is installed — it begins in the manufacturing and distribution process. Attackers can inject malicious firmware, install backdoors, or exploit weak supply chain security before a device even reaches the user.

Weak passwords

Too many devices still ship with default settings like usernames and passwords — and too many users never bother to change them. Hackers know this and use brute-force attacks to break in. It's one of the easiest, most preventable security risks.

Device management

IoT deployments often lack centralized oversight, making monitoring devices, detecting threats, or pushing security updates efficiently nearly impossible. Without proper management, businesses struggle to detect and respond to cybersecurity threats, which leaves a lot of space for attackers to operate.

Legacy devices

Many legacy IoT devices were never designed with modern cybersecurity in mind, but they still get plugged in to critical networks. This mismatch creates weak points that attackers can exploit. Worse, IoT networks are often decentralized, meaning one compromised device can allow attackers to hack the entire system.

Examples of IoT cyberattacks

IoT cyberattacks have already caused significant damage. Below is a table of notable security incidents:

Security tips for IoT users

Beyond industry-wide best practices, individual IoT users must also take proactive measures to secure their devices. Recent cybersecurity threats to home IoT systems have involved smart cameras, thermostats, and even baby monitors.

To keep your gadgets safe, follow these personal cybersecurity tips:

• Review device permissions and disable any unnecessary data-sharing features.
• Use a VPN when connecting devices to public or unsecured networks.
• Regularly reset and update passwords, avoiding default or easily guessed credentials.
• Check manufacturer security policies before purchasing new devices.
• Unplug or turn off devices when they're not in use to minimize risks.

The future of IoT cybersecurity

As more devices are equipped with internet connection and networking capabilities expand, cyber threats will only get more sophisticated. We'll need stronger cybersecurity within the entire IoT ecosystem to improve network security and safeguard data storage servers. Here's what to expect in the foreseeable future:

• AI-powered security. ‍Cyberattacks move fast, and a compromised IoT device can be used as an entry point for larger breaches. Intrusion detection systems powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) can be a solution. By analyzing network behavior in real time, these emerging technologies may help identify security gaps and increase the chances of stopping potential threats.
• Better encryption standards. End-to-end encryption may become the norm, ensuring data stays protected from the moment it's collected to when it's processed or stored.
• More secure-by-design devices. Security can't be an afterthought. IoT manufacturers will need to build security into devices from day one, reducing reliance on patches and updates to fix vulnerabilities.
• Regulatory improvements. Governments worldwide will likely tighten the security laws that apply to the IoT space. Manufacturers will therefore have to follow stronger cybersecurity standards in their IoT solutions and get rid of security issues like default passwords and unencrypted data transmissions.
• Educational programs. Securing IoT infrastructure isn't just a tech issue — it's a skills gap. Educational programs may focus more on IoT security, ensuring future cybersecurity professionals understand the risks and how to deal with them.
• Increased user awareness. Consumers and businesses will likely become more aware of cybersecurity best practices: choosing secure devices, enabling strong authentication, and demanding better protection from manufacturers.