OWASP For IoT Security - 10

Another security issue affecting IoT devices is the absence of physical hardening. Attackers can introduce code, dump memory, and even alter firmware if devices let it, whether through open ports or physical interfaces.

Physical access to a device is perhaps the most straightforward approach to penetrate and cause harm (depending on the device). It is more like a simple theft. You should not allow more than the minimum physical number of device access channels; just as most private residences have one or two entrances at maximum.

Manufacturers of IoT devices should begin by assuming that consumers will open the gadget, inspect it, and modify it. Most people won't, but some will - and if they're motivated enough, they'll probably break the device. Consider what they would do and how they would do it, whether it's someone attempting to disable a smart alarm system in order to commit a crime or someone attempting to minimize their electric bill by circumventing the settings on a smart meter. Consider how long a gadget can resist a physical attack as well as the attacker's likely skill level, then incorporate the necessary learnings into the device.

Physical access to machines that have not been hardened against physical attacks can be disastrous. It runs the danger of creating interchangeable configurations that can be utilized to extract data. It is critical to align physical hardening with all aspects of security constraints.

Even a removable MicroSD card can allow an attacker in extracting sensitive data and obtaining hidden passwords, as well as introduce a malicious backdoor into your IoT solution. Hardening your IoT device using the System-On-Chip (SOC) as a proactive method against physical access is required to keep protected from such activities.

To protect IoT devices from physical risks, manufacturers should:

• Recognize how a user can alter the device.
• Anticipate what kind of damage a user might do to the equipment.
• Come up with solutions and construct an IoT gadget that can withstand all types of attacks.

With the Internet of Things (IoT) growing in popularity, both manufacturers and users may reap the most benefits if the devices are protected by robust security measures.