Tips on How to Protect IoT Gadgets from Ransomware Attacks

I just returned from the hardware hacking village at DefCon, where every year, I leave the place impressed and horrified. And while drinking my third coffee of the day and contemplating all the ways IoT devices are just wide-open doors for ransomware, I thought that it was time to write this down. Just because your 100-degree thermostat, security camera, or industrial IoT sensors don’t seem enticing doesn’t mean they’re not targeted.

The Problem with IoT Security

Security is an afterthought in the IoT world. Manufacturers think usability, connectivity, and cost, but not security. That’s how we’ve ended up with refrigerators that can get hacked — ridiculous but real. And attackers? They know this. They love this.

Quick Take

• IoT devices have weak security controls, making them an easy target for ransomware.
• Attackers leverage compromised credentials, unpatched firmware, and open network connections.
• Best defenses: Network segmentation, strong authentication, endpoint protection, and regular updates.

Alright, let’s break it down.

Why IoT is Vulnerable

I’ve been doing this since the early ‘90s — when making connections seemed less like a science and more like an art. I remember the days of Slammer worm causing damage due to one oversight of a vulnerability. Fast-forward to the present and IoT is the latest weak link.

• Default credentials: Many devices are still shipped with admin/admin as the login. That’s like your front door being unlocked while you put up a sign that says “Come on in.”
• Unpatched firmware: Manufacturers often delay rolling out updates — if they do at all. Even when updates are provided, they’re rarely applied.
• Always-on: IoT devices are designed to be available 24/7. This is great for users but also great for attackers.
• Weak to no encryption: Some IoT cameras don’t encrypt login credentials, sending them in plaintext over the network, creating a significant vulnerability.

And it’s not only home devices. Factories, medical equipment, and critical infrastructure are becoming smarter but are still not adequately secured.

How Ransomware Targets IoT

Attackers don’t necessarily need to encrypt your smart lightbulb and hold it for ransom. However, they could use hacked IoT devices as an entry point. After infiltrating the network, attackers move laterally until they find something valuable. By the time you notice, it’s usually too late.

• Weak credential attacks: Default passwords make it easy for attackers to gain access.
• Exploiting vulnerabilities: Unsecured software becomes an effortless way for malware to enter.
• Botnets and DDoS: Hackers can control compromised IoT devices to launch large-scale attacks.
• Lateral movement: A breached IoT device becomes the gateway to more critical systems, such as corporate servers, financial data, or sensitive information.

For example, I recently helped a bank secure its network after attackers exploited unsecured IoT security cameras to escalate privileges. This is how one simple device can lead to a ransomware disaster.

Security Best Practices for IoT

You don’t need to spend a fortune on security to protect IoT devices, but you must not ignore basic precautions. Here’s where to start:

1. Change Default Passwords: Replace default login credentials with unique, strong passwords as soon as the device is set up.
2. Segment Your Network: Separate IoT devices from essential systems using network segmentation to prevent attackers from accessing critical data.
3. Update Firmware and Software: Keep your IoT devices up-to-date with the latest firmware and software patches.
4. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Use MFA on IoT devices whenever possible to add another layer of security.
5. Reduce Open Access: Turn off remote access and close any open ports that are not necessary for the device’s function.
6. Invest in Endpoint Security: Use endpoint protection solutions to secure IoT devices, especially in critical industries like finance, healthcare, and manufacturing.
7. Implement Zero Trust: Apply a Zero Trust security model — never trust any device by default and verify everything.

IoT Security Services by PJ Networks

At PJ Networks, we’ve been securing industries like banking, healthcare, and enterprise for decades. IoT security has become one of the most significant areas of focus due to its vulnerability. Our approach includes:

• IoT risk isolation through network segmentation strategies.
• Artificial intelligence and behavioral anomaly detection.
• Automated security patching solutions to ensure no updates are missed.
• Endpoint security tailored for IoT-heavy industries.

In 2022 alone, we successfully helped three banks enhance their IoT security posture, eliminating vulnerabilities that could have led to ransomware attacks. If financial institutions are at risk, your business might be too.

Conclusion

There’s no alternative to IoT security. With the explosion of connected devices, attackers have found a new playground. Being proactive in securing IoT devices is far less costly and messy than reacting to an attack. Here are the key takeaways:

• Update your IoT passwords immediately.
• Keep firmware updated.
• Segment IoT devices on a separate network.
• Implement endpoint security measures.
• Adopt a Zero Trust approach.

I’ve seen firsthand how challenging it becomes to secure IoT networks after an attack. Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you’re looking to fortify your IoT ecosystem, PJ Networks is here to help. Let’s discuss how to secure your IoT devices and keep attackers at bay.