IoT Malware Protection

What is IoT malware?

The Internet of Things, or IoT for short, is the expanding network of internet-connected devices, ranging from factory sensors to fitness bands. Despite their convenience, their relatively lower security (majority of them lack sophisticated firewalls and antivirus software) attracts hackers to exploit their vulnerabilities.

Once infected, a device can be made into a "bot" and coerced into joining a botnet, which is a much larger network of compromised devices. On the dark web, these botnets can be rented to conduct attacks, steal information, or bring down well-known websites. One of the earliest examples was Mirai, a malware strain that took over hundreds of thousands of routers and cameras back in 2016. It caused a wave of internet outages so big that even companies like Twitter and Netflix went down.

Why are IoT devices so easy to attack?

If you’ve ever set up a smart device, you might recall how easy it was to get up and running. Plug it in, connect it to Wi-Fi, and you’re done. While that simplicity is great for users, it’s also what makes these devices attractive to attackers.

Here’s why IoT devices are such easy prey:

• Weak or default passwords: Most people never change the factory-set credentials like “admin” or “1234.” Hackers don’t even have to guess them; they’re often listed publicly.
• Lack of updates: Many IoT manufacturers stop supporting their products after a couple of years, leaving old devices with open vulnerabilities.
• Limited security layers: Unlike computers, IoT gadgets lack the processing power to run antivirus software or complex encryption.
• Insecure connections: Some devices send unencrypted data over the internet, meaning anyone can eavesdrop if they know where to look.
• No standardization: There are thousands of brands and yet no single rule-book for how IoT security should work.

Individually, these may sound harmless. However, together, they form a wide-open door for attackers.

Types of IoT malware you should know about

IoT malware can take many different forms, each with a distinct objective. The most prevalent kinds are as follows:

• Botnets: Botnets are collections of compromised devices that propagate spam or initiate large-scale DDoS attacks. Two well-known examples are Mirai and Mozi.
• IoT systems ransomware: IoT systems such as smart locks or medical equipment are locked down by ransomware until a ransom is paid.
• Spyware: Spyware silently logs what your smart assistant hears or what your security camera sees.
• Worms: Worms are malware that replicates itself and moves between devices connected to the same network.
• Cryptojacking malware: This malware mines cryptocurrency covertly by using your device's processing power, frequently causing hardware to overheat and drain power.

Adverse effects of IoT malware

IoT malware can result in privacy violations for individuals (just think of someone getting access to your home camera or baby monitor). Businesses may experience downtime, lost revenue, and in certain situations, years-long harm to their reputation. Some repercussions include:

• DDoS Attacks: Websites and cloud services are brought down by botnets that overload a server with traffic.
• Data Theft: Voice recordings, camera footage, or credentials that have been stolen may be sold online.
• Energy Waste: Cryptojacking drains electricity and shortens the lifespan of devices.
• Operational Disruption: Compromised IoT systems can stop entire production lines in industries.

On a broader scale, entire cities can be impacted by compromised IoT networks. Just like how baby monitors, hospital monitoring systems, power grids, and traffic lights can also fall prey to IoT malware.

How to protect against IoT malware

You don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert to keep your IoT environment safe. Small, consistent steps make the biggest difference.

• Change default passwords: The first and easiest fix. Always set strong, unique passwords. Use a password manager if you have many devices.
• Update diligently: Firmware updates aren’t just for new features, they patch critical security flaws. Enable automatic updates if your device supports them.
• Secure your home network: Your Wi-Fi router is the gateway to all your devices. Use WPA3 encryption if possible, disable UPnP, and set up a separate IoT network.
• Turn off what you don’t need: Your smart fridge doesn’t need to connect to the cloud, so disable that feature. The fewer connections, the smaller your attack surface.
• Watch for odd behavior: Devices suddenly heating up, rebooting on their own, or using more bandwidth than usual can be warning signs of infection.
• Buy from trusted brands: Choose manufacturers known for regular updates and transparent data policies.
• Isolate and segment: In office or industrial setups, network segmentation ensures that if one IoT device gets hit, it doesn’t infect everything else.
• Invest in IoT security tools: For businesses, centralized monitoring tools can detect anomalies, apply patches remotely, and give IT teams visibility across thousands of endpoints.

The future of IoT security

Convenience is brought about by the explosion of connected technology, but it also creates a huge attack surface. The consequences of inadequate security increase dramatically as these gadgets become more and more ingrained in our daily lives, from smart cars to wearable health trackers.

The industry is starting to react. Governments are establishing cybersecurity guidelines for Internet of Things products, such as the U.S.'s IoT Cybersecurity Improvement Act. Manufacturers are under pressure to provide devices with longer support cycles, stronger encryption, and unique credentials.

Meet the author

Tushar Balaji

Tushar Balaji is a product marketing professional with ManageEngine’s Unified Endpoint Management & Security portfolio. Combining an AI & Data Science background with crisp storytelling, he crafts blogs, content and research to help IT leaders harden defenses and drive UEM adoption.