Internet of Things (IoT) security devices are electronic tools connected via Internet to a common network and are used to provide security measures. These devices can be controlled remotely through a mobile application, web-based interface or any proprietary installed software, and they often have capabilities such as remote video monitoring, intrusion detection, automatic alerts, and smart automation features. IoT security devices form an integral part of the smart ecosystem, which is characterized by the interconnectivity of various appliances and devices through the Internet.
History
The concept of IoT security devices began to gain traction in the early 2010s with the advent of smart technology. The initial devices were primarily focused on remote surveillance that would allow monitoring of the properties remotely using webcams and similar devices. As technology advanced, these systems began to incorporate a wider range of features, such as intrusion detection and automatic alerts.
The rise of smart automation and the proliferation of IoT devices in the mid-2010s further accelerated the growth of IoT security devices. As of 2021, the market for IoT security devices is expected to continue its rapid expansion due to increasing consumer awareness about security and the continuing development of IoT technology.
Types of IoT Security Devices
- Surveillance Cameras: These are one of the most common types of IoT security devices. They provide real-time video monitoring of the environment, allowing to view footage remotely from the interface.
- Smart Locks: Smart locks can be controlled remotely and can provide access to authorized individuals. Some also have features such as biometric recognition and automatic locking and unlocking based on proximity.
- Smart Alarms: These devices can detect potential threats such as break-ins, fire, and carbon monoxide and send automatic alerts to homeowners, security units and, in some cases, local authorities.
- Door/Window Sensors: These sensors trigger an alert when doors or windows are opened or tampered with.
- Smart Detectors: These devices detect environmental hazards such as smoke, gas leaks, and water leaks, alerting in real time.
Criticism and Concerns
Despite their benefits, IoT security devices have also raised several concerns. The most significant of these is the potential for privacy breaches. As these devices are connected to the internet, they are potentially vulnerable to hacking, which could result in unauthorized access to sensitive data.
There are also concerns about the reliance on internet connectivity. If an internet connection goes down, some devices may become non-functional, potentially leaving the environment unprotected. Similarly, if a device's software isn't regularly updated, it could become vulnerable to security flaws.
But with the technological rise, IoT devices can be secured with the help of vulnerability assessment and penetration testing. These tests are performed by expert pentesters in order to secure the IoT device. Manufacturers can now take a security audit of their IoT devices.
See also
References
- Pal, Souvik; Diaz, Vicente Garcia; Le, Dac-Nhuong (2022). IoT: Security and Privacy Paradigm (Internet of Everything (IoE)) (1st ed.). CRC Press. ISBN 978-1032239644.
- Martin, Trevor (2022). Designing Secure IoT Devices with the Arm Platform Security Architecture and Cortex-M33. Newnes. ISBN 9780128214695.
- Shandilya, Shishir K.; Chun, Soon Ae; Shandilya, Smita; Weippl, Edgar (2018). Internet of Things Security: Fundamentals, Techniques and Applications. River Publishers Series in Information Science and Technology. ISBN 9788793609532.
- Sharma, Sudhir Kumar; Bhushan, Bharat; Debnath, Narayan C. (2020). Security and Privacy Issues in IoT Devices and Sensor Networks (1st ed.). Academic Press. ISBN 978-0128212554.
- Sharma, Sudhir Kumar; Bhushan, Bharat; Debnath, Narayan C. (2022). IoT Security Paradigms and Applications. CRC Press. ISBN 9780367515003.