Connected devices in the workplace: innovation or a gateway for cyberattacks?
Frédéric Kretzer
Sensors, cameras, smart locks, voice assistants… Connected devices (IoT) are multiplying in our lives, and increasingly in businesses.
Their promise? More efficiency, more automation, more useful data.
Their downside? Greater exposure to cyberattacks.
According to a Palo Alto Networks study, G8% of IoT traffic in professional environments is unencrypted. Add to this the fact that default passwords are rarely changed, firmware updates are often missing, and networks are heterogeneous… and you get a perfect playground for hackers.
Why is IoT so hard to secure?
Heterogeneity: every device is different, with very few common standards.
Limited authentication: no large-scale onboarding, no strong certificates.
Difficult identification: IT teams often struggle to map all the devices actually connected to the network.
Lack of awareness: many employees and SMBs underestimate the risks of using consumer-grade devices.
The real risks for your business
Here’s a striking example: a security camera left with its default password can give an attacker access to a company’s internal Wi-Fi key. Once inside the network, the attacker can steal sensitive data or deploy ransomware.
Shadow IT and BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) make matters worse: personal smartphones and household IoT devices are often connected to corporate networks without the IT department even knowing.
How to reduce the risks?
The good news: IoT security doesn’t have to be overly complex or expensive. A few best practices can already raise your security level significantly:
- Isolate connected devices on a dedicated network (network segregation).
- Systematically inventory all connected devices to avoid blind spots.
- Enforce simple but strict rules (change default credentials, apply regular updates).
- Raise awareness among employees and IT teams about IoT-specific risks.
If you wish to go further and get concrete advice on how to secure your IoT without complicating your infrastructure, you can download the full guide: “Connected Devices: Vulnerable Objects? How to Simplify the Integration and Security of IoT Devices in Your Business”: https://ucopia.com/en/uncategorized/e-book-iot-connected-devices/
More about Weblib
Weblib is a technology solutions provider specializing in Guest WiFi management for businesses across various industries. Their platform enables organizations to deliver secure and seamless internet access to visitors while offering tools for managing user journeys and enhancing the customer experience. By combining connectivity with data-driven insights, Weblib supports businesses in improving engagement and optimizing their digital services.