If we are all intelligently connected around the world, the credit goes to IoT. Smart speakers managing our schedules to thermostats optimising our home energy, these devices intersperse comfort into our daily lives. But do you know that this hyper-connectivity has a dark side? A rise in IoT device hacking!
A 2025 report by CompareCheapSSL revealed that around 820,000 IoT attacks transpire every day on average. Not only do they cause continuous compromise, but also background risk across industries. Is it possible to overcome these relentless attacks? Yes, it is. You simply need to take the right measures to form a formidable digital fortress.
In this blog, API Connects – a trusted name in IoT integration and data solutions– will share 7 actions enterprises and individuals are taking to safeguard their IoT devices from getting hacked.
How to Prevent IoT Devices From Hacking?
One doesn’t need a cybersecurity degree to forge a strong and secure IoT ecosystem. Just consistent and smart digital habits. Here are some fundamental measures to lessen the risk:
Change default credentials immediately
Imagine default usernames and passwords as keys that you leave under the doormat. We all know it’s the place where burglars check first. Hackers have automated robots that scan devices still with factory-set logins like admin/admin. The critical first line of defence is to change these credentials immediately once you set up a new IoT device.
This way, you can block low-effort attacks immediately.
Embrace strong, unique passwords
Since we told you about changing the default password, make sure your new one is as strong as a digital lock. Refrain from using easy-to-guess passwords. Rather, use a long, complicated passphrase with upper and lower case letters, figures, and symbols.
Always remember to use one password per IoT device and account. This IoT measure to prevent hacking can be managed dexterously using a password manager. It will ensure that intrusion in one machine does not cause a chain reaction throughout your entire network.
Keep firmware religiously updated
See those messages telling you about updating IoT devices? Those are not just for new features but also emergency updates. Manufacturers contemporize firmware on a regular basis to address bugs that hackers have found. Delaying them means you’re letting hackers know, “These holes are wide open. Come, take a sneak-peak.”
Turn on automatic updates wherever feasible so that you are never left behind when it comes to dealing with the latest threats without having to think about it.
Segment your network with guest Wi-Fi
Ah, a mighty containment strategy. When you put all your Internet of Things devices on a guest Wi-Fi network (say, smart TVs, speakers, or cameras), you implement a digital quarantine zone. Even if a hacker successfully manages to attack one of the less secure devices, they will be trapped on the guest network, struggling to access and move outwards towards your main network.
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Disable unnecessary features
Most IoT devices have convenient features enabled by default. Remote management, Universal plug and play (UPnP) and open ports, for instance. Although having them up isn’t a problem, these can sometimes be a potential doorway into the device.
In case you are not actively using a specific feature on your device, disable it. This IoT measure of “least functionality” minimises your attack surface. Sealing the possible backdoors that can be abused by hackers.
Enable multi-factor authentication
One of the most important tips to consider if you truly want to safeguard your IoT devices from hacking. MFA is like a double-lock system on your online doors. Even if a hacker tries to steal your password, they would still be required to enter a code from your phone. Only then can they move past the security gate.
You can control unauthorised account takeovers as the stolen credentials become practically useless on their own.
Audit device permission regularly
IoT apps usually request more access than they need. Our next advice to prevent hacking is to check the permissions you have given. Does a smart light really need your microphone? Why is my security camera seeking access to my contacts? What is the smart refrigerator doing with my phone gallery?
A revocation of unnecessary permissions restricts the harm a breach could cause. The same thing applies to checking list of devices actively connected to your network. Eliminate those that are not in use anymore.
Hire the Best IoT Engineers in New Zealand
Above are some useful measures to protect IoT devices from hacking. Remember, proactive vigilance is your GREATEST weapon. While implementing the aforementioned ones, make sure to learn about new vulnerabilities affecting your devices. Put down devices that are not in use.
And if nothing makes sense, you can hire IoT experts in New Zealand. API Connects helps enterprises and individuals secure their IoT ecosystem. Using state-of-art tools, strategies, and decades of experience, we can help you build with confidence and security.
So what are you waiting for? Call us on 092430360 today. Let us help you build a smarter, safer, and connected future.
