How do I secure IoT devices connected to my critical systems?

Strengthening OT Security: Secure IoT Devices with Comprehensive Strategies for Critical System Protection

IoT and industrial IoT devices can provide valuable data, remote monitoring and efficiency improvements. However, when they connect to critical systems, they must be managed as part of the OT security architecture.

Risks include weak default credentials, insecure cloud connections, unpatched firmware, unclear ownership, poor logging, hidden communication paths and devices installed without proper approval.

Start with asset ownership

Every connected device should have an owner, purpose, approved connection path and documented security requirements. If a device collects data from OT systems, sends data externally or allows remote access, it should be included in the risk assessment.

Practical security measures

Secure IoT devices by changing default passwords, disabling unused services, applying firmware updates, segmenting networks, restricting outbound connections, reviewing cloud integrations, using secure remote access, logging activity and including devices in asset inventory and vulnerability management processes.

Where possible, IoT devices should not have unrestricted access to critical control networks. Data flows should be designed deliberately.

How ControlShield can help

ControlShield can assess IoT and IIoT deployments connected to OT environments. We can review architecture, define secure integration principles, assess supplier access, develop network segmentation designs, support risk assessments and create procedures for approving new devices.

We help organisations gain the operational benefits of connected technology without introducing uncontrolled risk.

Contact ControlShield before connecting new IoT or IIoT devices to critical OT systems.