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How to Secure Your IoT Devices: A Practical Guide for 2025

The Internet of Things (IoT) has transformed business operations and personal convenience, connecting everything from smart thermostats to industrial sensors. But this connectivity also expands the attack surface. In 2025, securing IoT devices is no longer optional—it’s a critical component of cybersecurity strategy, especially for small and midsize businesses (SMBs), non-profits, and local government entities.

Why IoT Security Matters

According to research by Forescout, over 30% of IoT devices in enterprise networks present critical risks due to outdated firmware, weak authentication, and unmonitored communications (Forescout, 2024). Attackers increasingly exploit these devices to move laterally within networks or launch distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks.

Reference: Forescout Research. (2024). The enterprise of things security report. https://www.forescout.com/the-enterprise-of-things-security-report-state-of-iot-security/

Common IoT Security Risks

  • Default Credentials and Poor Authentication: Many IoT devices ship with factory-default usernames and passwords, which attackers can find in public databases like Shodan.
  • Unpatched Vulnerabilities: IoT manufacturers may fail to deliver timely security updates—or any updates at all. Devices with known exploits are often left unpatched for years.
  • Lack of Network Segmentation: When IoT devices are on the same network as sensitive systems, a compromise in one device can give attackers a pivot point into your environment.
  • Data Leakage and Privacy Issues: Devices may transmit data to cloud servers without encryption or oversight, posing privacy and compliance challenges.

Steps to Secure Your IoT Environment

1. Inventory and Classify All Connected Devices

Use network scanning tools (e.g., Armis, Nozomi Networks) to discover and catalog every IoT device in your environment.

2. Change Default Credentials Immediately

Use strong, unique passwords for each device. Where possible, implement multi-factor authentication.

3. Keep Firmware Up to Date

Monitor vendor alerts and apply firmware updates promptly. Consider automated vulnerability monitoring services.

4. Segment IoT from Core Business Networks

Place IoT devices on isolated VLANs or use firewalls to prevent lateral movement.

5. Monitor Device Behavior

Use anomaly detection tools to flag unusual traffic patterns or communication with known malicious IPs.

Example: Nozomi Networks. (2024). IoT and OT visibility. https://www.nozominetworks.com/blog/tapping-visibility-into-ot-iot-devices-for-preventative-maintenance

6. Purchase from Vendors with a Security-First Mindset

Look for vendors that support secure boot, encrypted communications, and robust update lifecycles.

Wentz IT Consulting’s Perspective

We’ve worked with municipalities and nonprofit clients to build secure IoT ecosystems that balance usability and risk. From IP cameras to HVAC controllers, securing these assets is foundational to cyber resilience.

Ready to audit and secure your IoT environment?
Let Wentz IT Consulting help. We offer network assessments and device segmentation planning to safeguard your infrastructure.

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