Limited resources: Low-cost IoT toolkits simplify the task of developing new smart devices. The downside of these devices is that they’re often too underpowered to run security software or communicate securely. Download avg antivirus support for windows 10 Lack of standards: Connected devices vary greatly in their security safeguards by manufacturer. If one device is hacked, it potentially compromises other devices on the same network.
Cloud-enabled security
Chime from Innovation Labs by AVG (the antivirus and online security company) protects smart appliances by ensuring network traffic is authorized only to approved websites and mobile apps. Chime is installed on Wi-Fi routers and uses an online directory to stay current with new malware and hacking threats. It applies security techniques originally developed for enterprise security to also protect connected devices:
1. Two-factor authentication: Is that really you?
Chime creates a secure connection between the device and the owner’s authorized phone, tablet or computer. A hacker with stolen username and passwords is blocked from accessing the connected device unless the person also has physical access to a pre-authorized phone or PC by this two-factor authentication.
2. Blacklists and whitelists: In or out?
Chime develops a whitelist with normal network behavior for each connected devices and a list of approved websites for updates. There’s also a blacklist of known viruses and IoT malware sites to block.
3. Heartbeat protocol: Are you still alive?
Users depend on their connected devices to alert them if something is wrong. What happens when a hacker intentionally disables an appliance and turns off sensor readings? Chime protects against this form of attack by checking the heartbeat of the device to make sure it’s still alive and working as planned.
