Why IoT Devices Are Hidden Risk In Office Security
Now a days, offices are connected smartly. From smart CCTV cameras and biometric attendance systems to connected printers, smart TVs, access controls, and conference room devices Internet of Things (IoT) devices are everywhere.
Although this devices improve efficiency, makes our work easier and faster but they also come with security issues that most of the businesses ignored.
IoT devices have become one of the biggest weak spots in office network security.
Cyber attackers are not only focuses on primary target but they are exploiting poorly secured smart devices to enter corporate networks without raising alarms.
What Are these IoT Devices?
Thay are physical devices connected to the internet and can collect, send, or receive data.
Common office IoT devices include:
> Smart CCTV cameras
> Biometric attendance machines
> Network printers and scanners
> Smart TVs and projectors
> Access control systems
> Smart lighting and HVAC systems
> Voice assistants and meeting room devices
Most businesses using these devices for convenience, without thinking about their security
Why IoT Devices Are a Security Risk
IoT devices were built for convinence and making our work easier,not security. This makes them primary targets for cybercriminals.
1. Weak or Default Passwords
Many IoT devices come with default usernames and passwords like “admin/admin”. If these are not changed, attackers can easily access the device using publicly available credentials. This is one of the weak point in security for office cyber attacks.
2. Forget regular updates
> Forgotten after installation
> Rarely updated
> Running outdated firmware
These unpatched device become main entry point for attackers
3. Always Connected to the Network
In many offices IoT devices are always connected to the network.Once it compromised, attackers can:
> Monitor network traffic
> Move laterally to other systems
> Access sensitive business data
In many cases, the breach starts small and spreads silently.
4. Poor Visibility and Monitoring
Most organisations don’t track:
> How many IoT devices are connected
> What data they transmit>
> Whether they are behaving suspiciously
Without poor monitoring, attacks can’t be detect on time.
5. Third-Party Risks
Many IoT devices rely on:
> External vendors
> Cloud platforms
> Mobile apps
If any third-party system is compromised, your office network becomes exposed.
How IoT Security Breaches Impact Real world
When an IoT device is compromised, the result can be serious:
> Data theft and privacy violations
> Network-wide malware infections
> Ransomware attacks
> Business downtime
> Compliance violations
> Loss of customer trust
In some cases, attackers don’t even need advanced hacking skills, they simply exploit neglected devices.
Why Businesses Overlook IoT Security
Many organisations assume:
> It’s just a camera or printer
> Attackers won’t target small devices
> IT will handle it later
Unfortunately, attackers think differently.
They look for the easiest way in, not the most complex one. IoT devices often become that easy entry point.
How to Fix it
IoT security risk are manageable with the right approach.
1. Create an Inventory of All IoT Devices
You can’t secure anything unless you know it is at risk
Start by listing:
> All connected devices
> Their purpose
> Network access level
> Firmware version
This visibility is the foundation of IoT security.
2. Change Default Credentials Immediately
Every IoT device should have:
> Strong, unique passwords
> No shared credentials
> Restricted admin access
Use different password on multiple devices
3. Segment Your Network
IoT devices should never be on the same network as:
> Employee laptops
> Servers
> Critical business systems
Segment network can reduce the risk of cyber attack.
4. Keep Firmware Updated
Enable:
> Automatic updates (if available)
> Scheduled manual updates
> Vendor security notifications
Outdated firmware is one of the biggest IoT security risks.
5. Monitor Device Activity
Unusual behavior such as:
> Sudden data spikes
> Unexpected outbound connections
> Device going offline frequently
It can indicate a security issue. Proper monitoring can reduce the security risk.
6. Work With Trusted Security Partners
Managing IoT security internally can be challenging, especially for growing businesses.Get help from the managed service provider for device monitoring and to make network more secure.
Smart offices need smart security
Many businesses are unaware of how a device can become an entry point for most of the cyber attack,and beacuse of this the security of IoT devices remains unnoticed.
But in reality, they can lead to an entire organisation to cyber threats. Detecting these risks today can prevent costly incidents tomorrow
Security is not about disabling technology it’s about using it responsibly.
Stay aware & secure !
