What are IoT Devices?
Solve the jigsaw puzzle of hardware pieces, such as gadgets, sensors, appliances, and actuators, and program them to perform certain tasks automatically, transmitting a specific data set, and you have developed an IoT device.
How do IoT Devices influence day-to-day life?
We have entered a new era of networking comfort and innovation due to the extraordinary growth of the Internet of Things (IoT). IoT gadgets, from smart appliances to industrial sensors and driverless vehicles, have virtually taken over every area of human existence, including businesses. Despite their comfort and convenience, the proliferation of IoT devices poses substantial security issues for IoT ecosystems.
With so many IoT devices entering the marketplace, there need to be more built-in security features. Also, the computing capabilities of IoT devices are in question. It has been observed that these devices are vulnerable to cyber threats. Artificial intelligence has become a leading contender in identifying and shielding systems from scams and online threats.
The Challenges of IoT Security
It has been proven that IoT devices are vulnerable to cyber threats, but it is also essential to know the nature of the threats. Let’s review them.
Countless manufacturers produce IoT devices in various sizes, shapes, and colors. The operating system and communication protocols they use are diverse. Lacking uniformity in security apparatus raises a huge question about the security of IoT devices.
IoT manufacturers flood the market with cheap devices with less storage, minimum memory, and limited computing capabilities. Due to its commercial nature, developing traditional security solutions is a major constraint.
IoT devices are vulnerable to unauthorized access due to extremely weak and default passwords. The lack of a strong authentication mechanism leaves such devices at the mercy of hackers.
The number of IoT devices is growing at an explosive rate without security. The larger the number of IoT devices, the thinner the security net. An increasing number of IoT devices means an expanding possibility of cyberattacks.
There are a huge number of old IoT devices that are functional but need an update from the manufacturer. Without security patches, such devices become a major security threat for users since updating them is costly.
AI-Based Threat Detection and Prevention
AI has been at the forefront of providing automation and security. Regarding IoT devices, AI can be more potent with Automated Security. Let’s look at how!
Irregularity Detection
AI-based solutions are excellent at identifying unusual behavioural patterns in IoT devices. AI Algorithms can adequately analyze the data from devices to establish benchmark behaviour and trigger alarms, detecting threats.
Behavioural Analysis
Artificial intelligence solutions are usually self-sufficient to learn independently, recognize behaviours, and distinguish between justified and unjustified behaviour. Based on behavioural data, AI can determine security threats.
Real-time Monitoring
If it is not real-time, it is not AI. AI-designed systems are devices that monitor IoT devices constantly and collect data. Real-time monitoring enables AI systems to identify and mitigate security risks.
Threat Intelligence Integration
Suppose threat intelligence feeds are updated with AI-enabled security solutions. In that case, they become extremely powerful in recognizing even the smallest threat incident and staying aware of the latest security threat trends.
Device Authentication
AI-powered solutions are usually equipped with biometric solutions and fingerprint databases to enhance the security of IoT devices without an in-built authentication mechanism. AI ensures that only authorized hands and eyes can operate such devices.
IoT Developers Can Leverage AI to Secure IoT Devices
IoT devices are spreading their net, encompassing the daily lives of humans. IoT devices have benefits, but their interconnected nature generates security risks for users and developers. Protecting IoT devices was daunting, and developing a security program with the program was challenging. Everything looks smoother now with the arrival of Artificial Intelligence. AI enables developers to enhance the security of devices and networks they are connected to instil confidence among users and confidentiality among developers.
Let’s explore how developers can utilize AI to protect IoT devices thoroughly.
Threat Detection and Prevention:
Incongruity Detection:
Data Encryption and Privacy:
Device Authentication:
Firmware and Software Security:
Behavioural Analysis:
Network Security:
Security Updates and Maintenance:
User Behavior Analysis:
Compliance and Reporting:
Conclusion:
Due to their composition and making, IoT devices are known to be vulnerable to external cyber threats. However, developers of IoT devices can now use Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning modules to not only automate the security check procedures but also eliminate threats and clean the attack surface from any suspicious activities. Developers can now easily program IOT devices to be resilient and secure. Source