The phrase “the Internet of Things” is used to describe physical objects that connect to the internet for the purpose of exchanging data with other objects or systems - think smart homes or digital clocks that sync the time with the internet. Internet connectivity can add new levels of functionality to otherwise simple devices, but they are host to a plethora of security risks. 

 

In 2017, a casino was hacked by means of one of these devices: a fish tank. The fish tank was installed with sensors which connected to a PC. The hackers were able to bypass the minimal defenses on the sensor, and gained unprecedented access. As comical as a high-end casino being compromised by a fish is, 10GB of data was pulled out of the casino, including information on some of the casino's highest rollers. 

 

So some casino somewhere got hacked and some rich gamblers got their information leaked. Should you care? Well, no, I’m not telling you to care about some anonymous casino or their equally anonymous clients. Just ask yourself this: do you have any smart devices in your home? A colour changing lightbulb or string lights that can be controlled from your phone? Both of those may have poor security measures which could compromise you, your family, or your business.

So what can you do about your devices? You could go on a smashing spree, destroy all forms of technology, burn off your fingerprints and live in a cabin in the woods, or, you know, just don’t buy these products. These IoT devices are still relatively new, and security is still catching up. At the time of writing this article, these devices leave consumers too vulnerable for comfort. Be careful when purchasing these devices, if it’s really cheap, it’s most likely equally as vulnerable.