Before Implementing IoT, Assess and Test Cybersecurity

Before Implementing IoT, Assess and Test Cybersecurity
Before Implementing IoT, Assess and Test Cybersecurity

We live in an increasingly connected world. In fact, there are expected to be more than 64 billion Internet of Things (IoT) devices worldwide by 2025, with global IoT spending anticipated to reach $3.1 billion this year.


As more organizations pursue digital transformation and implement IoT infrastructure to create efficiencies, cyber risks also increase. In 2019, the hacking of IoT devices increased by 54%. More devices connected to internal, hybrid, or cloud networks means we need to invest more in IoT cybersecurity.

Implementing more IoT devices within a network increases complexity by adding new endpoints that need to be secured. Without a thorough strategy for managing these devices, organizations may lack visibility that opens them up to increased risk. If one of these connected devices is compromised, the threat may spread throughout an organization’s digital ecosystem, putting the entire network at risk.

Start at the Beginning

Before deploying the next big thing in cybersecurity solutions, organizations need to conduct an overarching assessment of their current cybersecurity posture. A cybersecurity assessment is like taking a test on the overall cyber-hygiene of your organization, identifying weaknesses, and scoring you on the strength of your cybersecurity posture. These assessments should not only identify areas of weakness but also provide recommendations for improvement.

Beyond the initial assessment, organizations need to test their networks, IoT devices, cloud applications, and anything else that might impact their cybersecurity posture to identify any weaknesses and vulnerabilities that open them up to increased risk. This can include vulnerability scanning, penetration testing, and stolen password scanning, all of which are designed to provide an idea of the gaps in your cybersecurity posture.

Automated vulnerability scanning tools can help organizations quickly identify security weaknesses across systems, networks, devices, websites, and applications. Once in place, these tools should run regularly and provide reports to help institute a model of continuous improvement in the ever-changing technology landscape. Similarly, employing a “white hat” hacker to conduct network penetration testing will provide an organization with proof of any successful breach, including how a cybercriminal could gain access and what data might be impacted.

Keep It Going with a Strategy

These tactics are just a few pieces of a comprehensive cyber risk strategy that includes regular assessment and testing of IoT devices to ensure your network is optimized to defend against the latest IoT threats. The Defendify solution incorporates assessments and testing to identify critical data security weaknesses and provide ongoing recommendations for improvement based on leading cybersecurity frameworks.

With more sophisticated cyberattacks becoming headline news, organizations need to reevaluate their cybersecurity posture, including knowing where they stand and what they need to build a comprehensive cybersecurity program. Read our free cybersecurity e-guide to see if your organization makes the grade: “What’s the ‘F’ in Cybersecurity“.

Resources & insights

Why You Could Be Denied Cyberattack Insurance Coverage
Blog
Why You Could Be Denied Cyberattack Insurance Coverage
As you’re working toward achieving robust cybersecurity, the subject of cyber attack insurance coverage and cybersecurity insurance requirements is sure to enter the discussion.
Cost of a Cyberattack vs. Cybersecurity Investment
Blog
Cost of a Cyberattack vs. Cybersecurity Investment 
Detailing the cost of a cyberattack versus the ROI of a cybersecurity investment enables leadership to see cybersecurity solutions are worth it.
Defendify Listed as a High Performer in Six G2 Grid Categories
Blog
Defendify Listed as a High Performer in Six G2 Grid Categories
The Defendify Cybersecurity Platform has been listed as a High Performer in six Summer 2022 Data Security Software Category Reports on the technology review site G2.

Protect and defend with multiple layers of cybersecurity

Defend your business with All-In-One Cybersecurity®.

Explore layered
security

Learn more about Defendify’s three key layers and All-In-One Cybersecurity®.

How can we help?

Schedule time to talk to a cybersecurity expert to discuss your needs.

See how it works

See how Defendify’s platform, modules, and expertise work to improve security posture.

Take the first step toward comprehensive cybersecurity with a free Defendify Essentials package

Gain access to 3 award-winning cybersecurity modules. Nothing to install. Nothing to pay for.