The Internet of Things (IoT) has transformed the way people live and work. Now, smart cameras, routers, smart TVs, wearables, printers, home assistants, medical gadgets, security systems and industrial sensors may all be connected to the internet and talk to other devices.
This ease of use is also an increasing cybersecurity risk. Every connected device can be another prospective entry point for attackers. Poorly designed IoT devices, weak passwords, obsolete software, and the lack of security controls can allow hackers to take control of an IoT device or use it as a stepping stone into a larger network. Microsoft views IoT settings as an increasing threat surface. The National Institute of Standards and Technology suggests IoT makers embed security features into devices, and offer consumers with the information they need to safeguard them.
What Is An IoT Device?
IoT devices are physical devices that have computational capabilities, sensors, software and network connectivity. They can gather, handle, send or receive information on a network.
Typical examples include:
- Smart security cameras
- Wi-Fi routers
- Smart speakers
- Smart TVs
- Smart locks
- Fitness trackers
- Printers
- Smart appliances
- Industrial sensors
- Medical equipment
One of the big differences between IoT devices and traditional computers is that IoT devices are built to do certain things. They have limited computing capability. This can hamper the implementation of typical security controls such as endpoint protection, regular updates and sophisticated monitoring.
Why Are Hackers Targeting IoT Devices?
One big factor is scale. A single compromised device may not seem like a big deal, but if you have thousands or millions of compromised devices, they can be quite useful to attackers.
Unmanaged IoT devices can be access sites for attackers to move laterally through networks or circumvent security safeguards, Microsoft cautions.
Hackers can hack IoT devices in the following manner:
- Build botnets
- Launch DDoS attacks
- Steal sensitive information
- Spy through cameras or microphones
- Disrupt business operations
- Install malware
- Use the device as a gateway into another system
- Mine cryptocurrency
- Conduct further attacks against other targets
1. Weak Or Default Passwords
Weak authentication is one of the main security challenges in IoT.
Some gadgets can be shipped with default passwords or credentials that users never change. Attackers can try common usernames and passwords against devices connected to the internet.
OWASP lists weak, guessable, or hardcoded passwords as the first item in its IoT Top 10.
A strong, unique password greatly reduces the risk. Where possible, administrators should also implement multi-factor authentication and turn off unused remote access.
2. Outdated Firmware And Software
IoT devices have software and firmware that may be vulnerable. Manufacturers might issue security upgrades, but if consumers don’t apply them, attackers can exploit known vulnerabilities.
As a specific example, OWASP identifies the lack of a secure update mechanism and the usage of vulnerable or obsolete components as important threats for IoT security.
Before you buy an IoT gadget, be sure the vendor provides regular security updates and how long the item will be supported.
3. Exposed Network Services
Most IoT devices talk over network services and ports. If you have unneeded services exposed to the Internet, attackers can scan for them and attempt to exploit any weaknesses.
A device doesn’t have to be entirely corrupted to be dangerous. An exposed device can be a beachhead from which the attacker probes additional systems.
Microsoft has seen attacks targeting remote management devices and has cautioned that insecure IoT devices can be used as pivot points into other portions of an organisational network.
4. Insecure Communication
IoT devices constantly interact with mobile apps, cloud platforms, servers, and various gadgets.
Without adequate security, the communicator is vulnerable to eavesdropping and manipulation through attackers.
Google Cloud advises using TLS for static connections between edge gadgets and backend systems, along with strong mutual authentication that incorporates mTLS where relevant. Sensitive files should also be covered when stored on the device.
5. Poor Device Management
An organization may have hundreds or thousands of devices linked. If security teams don’t know what devices exist, what software they’re running, or if they’re vulnerable, those devices might become blind spots.
Capabilities in NIST’s IoT cybersecurity catalogue include device identity, secure configuration, data protection, logical access control, software upgrades, and cybersecurity-state awareness. Accurate inventory is therefore a key element of IoT security.
6. Insecure Default Settings
Some IoT products are plug and play. Default configurations may not be the most secure, but they are convenient.
Users should alter the default passwords, disable functions that are not needed, limit remote administration, and examine network configuration settings. Insecure default settings are among the OWASP IoT Top 10 threats.
Real Example
1: The Mirai Botnet
One of the most well-known examples of IoT abuse is the Mirai botnet.
Mirai infected massive numbers of IoT and embedded devices, including cameras, DVRs, routers and printers in 2016. Google and other researchers determined that the botnet was expanding rapidly by scanning for susceptible devices and taking advantage of weak default passwords.
In the end, Mirai infected hundreds of thousands of machines and utilised them to execute enormous distributed denial-of-service attacks.
The moral is simple: A cheap camera or router seems harmless alone, but thousands of hacked devices may be a devastating weapon.
2: IoT Devices as Entry Points
IoT assaults are not just about botnets.
Microsoft has cautioned that devices such as webcams, smart conferencing tools, printers and other connected devices can open doors into workplace environments. Once attackers break into a poorly secured device they may attempt to migrate farther into the network.
This is especially worrying in organisations where IoT devices share networks with PCs, servers, apps or sensitive data.
That’s why organisations should not treat IoT devices as innocent gadgets. They should be part of security monitoring and network segmentation techniques.
How To Protect IoT Devices?
Whether you’re securing smart devices in your house or hundreds of devices in a business, many fundamental procedures help reduce risk.
Change Default Passwords
Change the default usernames & passwords immediately. Use a long unique password for every device.
Keep Firmware Updated
Apply security upgrades as soon as it is practical. Replace a device that is no longer supported.
Disable Unnecessary Services
Disable all unused features and services, notably unwanted remote administration.
Use Network Segmentation
Isolate IoT devices from sensitive computers and servers by placing them on a different network or VLAN wherever possible. This can limit harm if one device is compromised.
Connected Device Monitoring
Watch all linked devices and see if you see any weird traffic or activity.
Safe Communication
Where available, use encrypted communication methods such as TLS. Google suggests encrypting connections between the devices and backend systems.
Buy Devices From Responsible Manufacturers
Consider security before you buy an IoT product. Look for vendors who offer regular updates, security documentation, vulnerability handling, and transparent end-of-life policies.
The latest advice for IoT manufacturers from NIST, NISTIR 8259 Rev. 1, centers on cybersecurity efforts for the life cycle of development and support of IoT products.
The Future Of IoT Security
The amount and kinds of devices connected will continue to increase. “The more physical systems are connected together, the more important cybersecurity becomes.
You can’t rely on consumers to change passwords to build IoT security. “These products need to be designed and built from the ground up with secure authentication, updates, data protection, device identification, and secure configuration.”
At the same time, users and organisations need to take responsibility for upgrading, monitoring and securely configuring the devices they deploy. The aim isn’t to cease using IoT technology The objective is to make linked technology safer by considering every device as part of the cyber security environment.
Conclusion
IoT gadgets have made homes, businesses and industries smarter and more connected but also opened up new opportunities for cyber thieves. Everyday connected gadgets might become hacker targets due to weakly chosen passwords, old firmware, insecure setups and exposed network services. Real-world examples such as the Mirai botnet illustrate how thousands of insecure IoT devices may be abused at scale.
Use Strong Passwords to Protect IoT Devices. Update Software Regularly. Secure Network Configurations. Monitor Devices. Segment Networks. Manufacturers also have an important role to play in incorporating security into gadgets from the outset. As connected technology continues to proliferate, embracing IoT security as a core element of cybersecurity will assist to minimise risks and ensure our devices, networks and data are more secure.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it true that hackers can take over IoT devices?
Yes. Vulnerable IoT devices can sometimes be compromised due to weak passwords, obsolete software, exposed services or other security issues. And the impact will vary by device and the vulnerability.
2. What kinds of IoT devices do hackers go for the most?
All Internet-connected gadgets, such as routers, security cameras, DVRs, printers, smart appliances and more are vulnerable. Attackers are generally looking for devices that are exposed, poorly configured, or running vulnerable software.
3. How can I secure my smart home devices?
Change default passwords, apply firmware upgrades, utilise a secure Wi-Fi network, disable superfluous remote-access features and consider placing IoT devices on a separate guest or IoT network.
4. Why are IoT devices valuable to botnets?
A botnet can take control of thousands of infected devices. The devices can then be used to create massive volumes of bandwidth for assaults such as distributed denial-of-service attacks. The Mirai botnet was a case in point of how powerful this strategy can be.
5. Should companies isolate IoT devices on a different network?
One effective security strategy is network segmentation that restricts the lateral movement of an attacker if an IoT device becomes compromised. Organisations should also keep track of device inventories and monitor IoT activity.
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References
OWASP – Internet of Things / IoT Top 10
OWASP IoT Security
NIST – IoT Cybersecurity Guidance (NISTIR 8259 Series)
NISTIR 8259 Series
NIST – NISTIR 8259 Rev. 1 (2026)
NISTIR 8259 Rev. 1
Microsoft Security – Securing IoT Devices Against Attacks
Microsoft Security – IoT Devices
Google Research – Understanding the Mirai Botnet
Google Research – Mirai Botnet
Google Cloud – Securing IoT Backends
Google Cloud – Secure IoT Backends
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