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As we approach 2025, the rise of IoT devices continues to reshape industries and everyday life. However, with this growth comes a significant increase in security risks. In 2024, several high-profile IoT attacks have already caused widespread disruptions across sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, smart cities, and home automation. These incidents not only reveal the vulnerabilities of IoT systems but also emphasize the urgent need for improved security measures. Here are the top IoT security incidents of 2024.
In February 2024, a major ransomware attacks targeted IoT-connected medical devices in several U.S. hospitals. Hackers gained control of patient monitoring systems, infusion pumps, and MRI machines, forcing hospitals to revert to manual procedures. The attack exposed critical security flaws in the healthcare sector, such as outdated security patches and insufficient network segmentation, allowing malware to spread rapidly.
In May 2024, a distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack hit a large smart city in Asia, crippling IoT systems responsible for transportation, utilities, and public safety. Traffic lights, surveillance cameras, and waste management systems were all taken offline, leading to traffic congestion, public safety concerns, and widespread frustration. The attack revealed vulnerabilities in outdated IoT protocols and weak authentication, underscoring the need for robust cybersecurity practices in smart city infrastructures.
In August 2024, thousands of consumers reported unauthorized access to their smart home devices, including locks, security cameras, and thermostats. Hackers exploited weak passwords and default settings, gaining control over devices and breaching privacy. This attack highlighted the risks of consumer-grade IoT devices, where improper configurations and poor security practices left users exposed.
In June 2024, targeted cyberattacks on European manufacturing plants disrupted production by exploiting vulnerabilities in Industrial IoT (IIoT) systems. Hackers took advantage of weak communication protocols and outdated security measures, manipulating machinery and halting production lines. This incident underlined the potential risks of IoT in industrial settings, where insecure devices can have a catastrophic impact on operations.
In July 2024, attackers hijacked popular voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, using spoofed commands to gain unauthorized control. The attackers accessed private conversations, unlocked doors, and manipulated smart devices remotely, raising significant privacy concerns. The breach highlighted the need for better security in voice-assisted IoT devices.
The IoT security incidents of 2024 demonstrate the growing and evolving threats facing industries and consumers alike. With IoT devices becoming more deeply integrated into daily life, securing these systems is crucial to prevent disruptions and protect sensitive data.
IARM offers comprehensive IoT security solutions that address vulnerabilities across all layers—from hardware, firmware, communication, application, and cloud. Our proactive security assessments and ongoing support ensure that your IoT infrastructure is resilient to emerging threats and stays secure as the technology evolves.
Contact us today to secure your IoT environment and stay ahead of the curve.
This blog is written by cybersecurity professionals at IARM, specializing in protecting IoT ecosystems, identifying vulnerabilities, and ensuring privacy, reliability, and resilience. Their expertise covers hardware security, firmware protection, and securing wireless protocols to make IoT technology safer.
Mr. Vijayanand A
Mr. Sibi M
– IOT Security Professionals at IARM
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