New Year = New Cyber Crimes

2016 is upon us! With the steady influx of “smart technology”, 3-D printing, tablets and mobile devices, and with self-driving cars on the horizon, technological developments are certainly bringing more convenience, education, efficiency, discovery, and leisure to the world. These advancements, however, also provide clear avenues for cyber-terrorism and cyber-crimes. In the new year, it is likely that many of these cyber crimes will occur through the Internet of Things (IoT). This relatively new term refers to physical objects or "things" embedded with electronics, software, sensors, and network connectivity, which enables these objects to collect and exchange data. In other words, this can mean refrigerators, washing machines, TVs, medical devices, baby monitors, thermostats, locks, and even cars that are equipped with this capability. While more and more household appliances are adapting to “smart” technology, they often do not have proper security protocols. This can open the door for hackers to spy on those who use smart devices, as well as to maliciously misuse or control the devices by, for example, spying on your baby through the monitor, or even controlling the brakes and transmission in your car. These “things” are generally easy to breach because the home owners either set them up incorrectly, or often use the default password that came with the device. Furthermore, the devices are relatively powerful, and there are more of them than there are vulnerable laptops and computers, thus making IoT devices ideal targets for hackers. That said, it would be wise to think twice about what you purchase for your home or workplace. Be sure to research whatever you are looking to purchase so you properly secure your home and keep your family or your business safe. To join in our efforts to protect you against the threat of a cyber-attack, get connected with Taino Consulting Group at info@tainocg.com. Read more at: http://www.wired.com/2015/03/hacked-fridges-arent-internet-things-biggest-worry/

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/baby-monitors-connect-internet-vulnerable-hackers-cybersecurity/

http://www.wired.com/2015/07/hackers-remotely-kill-jeep-highway/