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10 Types of Cyber Security Attacks on IoT
The Internet of Things (IoT) has woven a web of interconnected devices, practically everywhere around us today. As a result, this technology introduces a wide range of cybersecurity vulnerabilities that attackers are eager to exploit. Hackers are continuously developing new ways to break into your IoT devices. The number of attacks is increasing at an alarming rate. According to the SonicWALL report, IoT malware attacks hiked up to 77.9 million in the first six months of 2023 globally from 57 million attacks in the first six months of 2022. In this case, individuals and businesses should be aware of the attacks on IoT and different types of attacks on IoT in order to protect their data and privacy. Let’s explore 10 types of cyber security attacks in IoT.
Types of Attacks on IoT
Physical Attacks
Physical attacks target the hardware of IoT devices. Attackers can manipulate devices, tamper with sensors, or gain unauthorized physical access to the devices, causing malfunctions or unauthorized data access.
- Zero-day Attacks
This sub-type of attack targets a previously unknown vulnerability in IoT devices or software. Attackers exploit these vulnerabilities before developers have a chance to deploy patches, making them highly effective and difficult to defend against. - Eavesdropping attacks
Attackers monitor the communication between IoT devices and communication channels, potentially stealing sensitive information or user credentials. Proper encryption and secure communication protocols are essential to thwart this threat. - Data Injection attacks
Attackers attack with malicious codes and commands on those systems which are poorly protected. - Replay attacks
This attack occurs through an authenticated data packet modified by malicious instructions. Malicious packets are sent to electronic equipment disguised under a completely legitimate data packet.
Denial of Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Attacks
By exploiting vulnerabilities in IoT devices’ security protocols, attackers flood IoT systems with an overwhelming amount of traffic, rendering them unresponsive or unusable disrupting crucial services, and inflicting financial and reputational losses.
Botnet Attacks
Attackers create botnets by hijacking poorly secured IoT devices. These botnets can be used for various malicious activities, such as sending spam emails, launching DDoS attacks, or spreading malware.
Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks
In MitM attacks, attackers eavesdrop on sensitive data or inject malicious content. Weak encryption, poor authentication, and insecure network connections are prime targets for this type of attack.
Malware Attacks
Malicious software (malware) attacks on IoT devices, compromising their functionality and potentially spreading to other devices in the network. Ransomware attacks on IoT devices have become a growing concern, as attackers can lock devices and demand payment for their release.
Credential Attacks
Attackers exploit weak or default passwords to gain unauthorized access to IoT devices. Once inside, they manipulate device settings, steal sensitive data, or use the device as a stepping stone to infiltrate the larger network.
Firmware Attacks
Attackers tamper with the firmware, they gain control over the device’s operations, potentially enabling unauthorized access or remote control.
Side-Channel Attacks
Side-channel attackers exploit information leaked during the device’s normal operation, such as power consumption patterns or electromagnetic emissions. These attacks on IoT can reveal encryption keys or other sensitive information.
Encryption Attacks
In this attack, attackers modify and install their algorithms and gain control over your device if the user’s IoT device is not encrypted. In this regard, encryption should not be forgotten, as it is necessary in IoT devices.
Brute Force Password Attack
This attack occurs through software that can generate many password combinations that the attacker distributes to a certain number of users. Accounts protected by a weak password fall under this attack. This allows the attacker to take confidential data, distribute malware, and do whatever he wants.
Summing Up
The rise of IoT has brought convenience and innovation to our lives, but it has also opened the door to a myriad of cybersecurity threats. As technology advances, so do the tactics of attackers. Safeguarding IoT devices and networks requires a multi-faceted approach that includes robust encryption, regular software updates, strong authentication methods, and a proactive security mindset. By understanding the diverse array of cybersecurity attacks targeting IoT, users and businesses can take steps to mitigate risks and ensure a safer connected future.
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