There are billions of connected devices in use worldwide, and that number is increasing by the millions every year. Unfortunately, many of these IoT devices, as well as those currently being developed and deployed, lack critical security features, making them easy targets for hackers and botnets. Without the proper security measures in place, these devices can lead to catastrophic events.
Once compromised, attackers can steal data stored on IoT devices, which may include personal information, passwords, and even credit card information. Worse, in some cases, hackers use IoT devices to collect data. A smart TV with a microphone and camera can be turned into a listening device, harvesting audio and video information. The device can sniff network traffic and exfiltrate it for offline analyses and map the network layout, finding additional targets to attack.