Trend Micro’s latest report on the Water Barghest threat actor reveals a significant challenge in the IoT ecosystem: the widespread lack of security in many connected devices. This incident, involving the rapid compromise of over 20,000 IoT devices turned into residential proxies within minutes, underscores the growing dangers of insecure IoT systems and highlights the necessity for immediate, effective security strategies.
Organisations that rely on IoT and OT devices must understand that these tools, while valuable, can quickly become significant security liabilities if not managed properly. The evolving threats emphasise the importance of robust security measures to prevent these devices from being exploited as entry points into corporate networks.
While IoT has transformed industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and urban planning, security often takes a back seat in device design. This negligence manifests through common vulnerabilities. Many IoT devices still rely on default or hardcoded credentials that users rarely change, making them easy targets for attackers. Additionally, sensitive data transmitted by these devices often lacks proper encryption, leaving it exposed to interception. Manufacturers are also slow in providing timely security updates, creating unpatched vulnerabilities that adversaries exploit. Furthermore, once deployed, IoT devices frequently receive minimal monitoring, leaving them exposed to risks over time. These weaknesses allow attackers like Water Barghest to identify and exploit unsecured devices, adding them to botnets for malicious activities, as seen with the Ngioweb malware.
To mitigate these risks, organisations must prioritise visibility into all connected devices within their networks. Securing IoT ecosystems starts with identifying all connected devices, including unmanaged ones that can serve as blind spots. Regular security assessments, such as vulnerability scans and firmware updates, are crucial. Automating the implementation of security policies, rotating credentials, and revoking access to compromised devices can further strengthen defences.
Solutions like Device Authority’s KeyScaler platform are designed to address these needs. By providing secure onboarding with strong credentials, end-to-end encryption to protect sensitive data, and continuous lifecycle management, KeyScaler helps organisations maintain a secure IoT environment. Real-time monitoring of device vulnerabilities and compliance ensures businesses remain ahead of emerging threats.
The rapid and automated tactics employed by Water Barghest highlight the urgency of treating IoT security as a priority. As we approach 2025, securing IoT devices should rise to the top of every CISO’s agenda. The risks are clear, and the tools to mitigate them are available—proactive action today can prevent significant vulnerabilities tomorrow.
The story of Water Barghest serves as a stark reminder that IoT security cannot be ignored. Investing in comprehensive security measures now will not only protect networks but also ensure the continued success of IoT innovations in a rapidly advancing digital world.
Tern plc (LON:TERN) backs exciting, high growth IoT innovators in Europe. They provide support and create a genuinely collaborative environment for talented, well-motivated teams. Device Authority is focused on securing connected device ecosystems and is recognized as the global leader in Device Identity Lifecycle Management and Identity and Access Management (IAM) for the Internet of Things (IoT).
