You’ve likely heard the phrase “Internet of Things.” This euphemism refers to the emerging trend of devices and technology integrating in network connectivity. For instance, think of a “smart” coffee maker.—it’s a device which also connects to a cloud service, and might store information about your favorite brew or temperature preferences.
The thing about IoT, however, is its security, or lack of. Cybersecurity is a permanent risk personally and professionally, and so are methods to attack our data. Typically, circumventing this requires anti-virus applications or protective firmware. But this extends to devices and machines which are expected to connect to a network.
Introduce machines or devices and you get the IoT, along with the enormous security risks it involves. Our coffee maker example is one such point. Does it run on firmware? Will that firmware ever get updated? Can a third-party use it as an entry point to other devices?
It’s for this reason many are wary of quickly introducing connectivity into machines. Security is a big issue, so why rush?
Fortunately, new technologies arise to combat these issues. If you follow trends, you’re also likely aware of Blockchain. Blockchain was developed for cryptocurrency to create a list of encrypted transactions which can’t be modified, verifying their legitimacy. As a financial protection model, it’s been quite successful. However, it’s also possible Blockchain can integrate with IoT as well.
One idea is to extend this flexible technology to smaller companies who develop components, software or devices which lack the resources of tech giants to implement strong cybersecurity standards.
Instead, those developers can introduce a software or system to periodically check blockchain, verifying the legitimacy of updates. Since blockchain is similar to a public board, it’s easy to identify what transactions (or in this case, updates) are legitimate, lending to better security implementations. It also allows the developer of a device or application to ensure it “talks” to the right device, leading to streamlined updates and stronger protection.
Of course, BIoT is still evolving. It’s also not a perfect solution. Rather, the benefits of blockchain with IoT are how it allows developers new ways to verify online activity.
A network protected by blockchain, for example, could take over the responsibilities of a router and monitor activity. If it identifies a behavior it finds erroneous (like our smart coffee maker example) it can promptly knock the device off the network.
Billions of devices are already connected to networks, forming microcosms of small machines linked with the internet. This, in turn, is creating a layer of nuanced security problems, of which current methods cannot keep pace with. BIoT just might be the first big step in solving the next generation of cybersecurity needs. For help with any IT needs, fill out this form, or call 877-599-3999.
