Tailor-made Internet of Things (IoT) apps process hordes of corporate data every day, often consisting of private, sensitive information about the company and its clients. When hackers gain access to this, they can exploit the data by blackmailing the company or selling it off to other evil entities. A data breach is often one of the most catastrophic things that can happen to any company, as it irreparably damages its reputation while resulting in significant financial losses.
If seasoned criminals compromise an IoT app, they can easily disrupt the network’s operation while allowing crucial data to fall into the wrong hands. It’s essential to secure the IoT app and protect it from cyber-attacks with all these risks. Here are five tips to take advantage of your IoT apps while buffing their security:
1. Create Complex Passwords
Hiring IoT app developers allows you to take advantage of their expertise, knowledge, and access to IoT technology. However, you’ll need to create separate, unique passwords to ensure the IoT app stays safe. It must be strong and challenging, so the hacker can’t guess what it is, and only the right people can enter certain parts of the app.
Sticking to default passwords is similar to leaving the door wide open for hackers because they are easily guessed and traced. Astute users can even glean the information online and use their research to uncover the password. By relying on unique and complex passwords, you can limit access and secure it from malicious hackers.
2. Implement Proper Authentication and Access
Another way to fortify your IoT app from cyber attacks is to establish the app’s hierarchy pattern to the development company, restricting unauthorised access. If anyone can simply access the app, it will be vulnerable to attacks. Random entries into the app can also make it more tedious to boost their security. Defining the access and authentication for your IoT app will ensure that the designated people can use it safely and seamlessly.
3. Update Your IoT App Frequently
Frequent updates mean that you’ll be identifying and quashing any bugs that can compromise your IoT app’s security, ultimately making it more powerful and protected from any hacking or phishing attempts. Users will also feel more confident and safe about using your app. You can even use updates to incorporate more advanced security features in the app, removing as many chinks in your app’s armor as possible.
4. Secure Tight Connections and Integrations
IoT apps are getting more advanced every day, as they can now integrate emerging technologies like AI and augmented reality. However, if you want to incorporate these features, you’ll need to make sure you establish an airtight connection, as improper ones can result in security breaches. Working with cyber threat intelligence experts can help you identify the best and most effective ways to do this.
5. Prioritise Firmware Security
IoT apps differ from traditional ones because IoT apps are designed to interact with connected devices, whereas traditional ones are standalone. Given this connectivity, there may be more vulnerabilities to address, especially in these devices. To address this, you can coordinate with cyber threat intelligence companies to find ways to update the firmware regularly and make sure it’s secure at all times. You can also work with IoT app developers to integrate this functionality into your app.
Protecting your IoT app from malware, unauthorised access, and cyber-attacks is vital to its success. Companies nowadays have heavy pressure to secure their customers’ information and prevent it from falling into the wrong hands. Failure to do this properly has caused financial losses and undue stress, such as identity theft and credit card fraud. By following these tips, you’ll enjoy a secure IoT mobile app with the appropriate protections.
FraudWatch International is a leading brand protection company that offers ransomware prevention services, protection against phishing, cyber threat intelligence, and many more. We protect companies from various cyberattacks, including social media and mobile apps impersonation. Contact us today to find out what we can do for you!