Smart devices have transformed both our homes and our workplaces, but this convenience often comes at a cost.
The Internet of Things (IoT)—which includes everything from cameras and thermostats to printers and badge systems—goes far beyond traditional computers and phones. While these internet-connected tools make daily operations easier, every unmonitored device creates a potential security blind spot.
Security risks
For consumers, many IoT risks come down to basics. A home camera, smart speaker, or video doorbell may arrive with default passwords, broad privacy settings, or remote access features already turned on. If those settings are never reviewed, the device may be easier to access than the owner realizes.
Another common problem is outdated software. Like laptops and phones, smart devices need updates to fix security issues. When updates are ignored, known weaknesses can remain exposed.
The good news is that simple steps can reduce risk. Change default usernames and passwords. Install updates when the manufacturer provides them. Review privacy and security settings. Turn off features you do not use, especially remote access or unnecessary integrations. Convenience matters, but so does knowing what your device is sharing and how it can be reached.
Corporate networks
In business environments, connected devices often build up quietly over time. A printer, security camera system, smart thermostat, conference room system, or badge access device may all sit on the network with little attention after installation.
That creates a basic problem: unknown devices cannot be secured. If an organization does not know what is connected, it cannot manage updates, assign responsibility, or spot unusual behavior.
A practical starting point is an inventory. Know which devices are connected, who owns them, and what business purpose they serve. From there, businesses can separate IoT devices from critical systems when possible, patch them through a regular process, retire outdated equipment, and monitor logs or network activity for signs of trouble. Procurement also matters. It is easier to manage devices that support secure configuration, updates, access control, and integration with security tools.
Network monitoring, device management
For federal contractors, IoT management also connects to Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) readiness. The issue is not that smart devices follow a separate set of gadget rules. The issue is that any connected device in an environment handling sensitive information can affect asset scoping, control, and monitoring.
A contractor should know which devices are in scope, where they connect, how they are managed, and whether their activity is being monitored. An unmanaged printer, camera, or sensor can reduce visibility and make it harder to show that the environment is being controlled appropriately.
Smart devices are now part of daily life at home and at work. The shared lesson is simple: you cannot protect what you do not see.
Start with a device inventory, apply basic hardening, and make routine monitoring part of the job.
Terence Tang is vice president of client strategy at Intech Hawaii and a cybersecurity and compliance leader with more than 25 years of experience in the managed services industry. Email him at ttang@intech-hawaii.com.
