Unveiling the Unseen Cybersecurity Threats Posed by Smart Devices

The number of smart devices worldwide has surpassed the global population, with a continuous upward trend, particularly amidst remote and hybrid work settings. Ranjit Atwal, Gartner’s senior research director, attributes this surge to the increase in remote work. As work mobility grows, the demand for connected devices like 4G/5G laptops rises, crucial for employees to work from anywhere.

Smart devices encompass gadgets connecting to the internet, like smart bulbs, speakers (e.g., Amazon’s Alexa), and wearables such as the Apple Watch. They collect data, enhancing user experience but also pose security risks exploited by cybercriminals. Surprisingly, consumers often overlook security when purchasing smart devices, as shown by Blackberry’s research.

In response, the European Union proposed the “Cyber Resilience Act” to enforce cybersecurity standards for all connected devices. Failure to comply may result in hefty fines. Margrethe Vestager from the European Commission emphasizes the need for market products to meet robust cybersecurity measures, likening it to trusting CE-marked toys or fridges.

Security vulnerabilities in smart devices pose threats, as seen in TP-Link’s smart lightbulb. Exploiting these vulnerabilities could grant hackers access to networks, risking data and enabling potential malware deployment. Even smart homes face numerous entry points for hackers, as illustrated by investigations conducted by Which?, showca

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