What measures are universities taking to secure IoT devices on campus?

IoT, otherwise known as the Internet of Things, relates to a network of devices connected to the internet such as computers, tablets, smartphones and more.

When you’re studying in the library or gathering at the local student union, one of your tech devices may automatically connect to the university’s Wi-Fi system without authentication requirements.

But have you ever stopped to think about the security measurements the university has in place to prevent cyber attacks or the breach of personal data?

Are the #IoT devices secure on your #highed campus? Consider these tips to get started. https://t.co/JawJyovdsF

— EdTech Higher Ed (@EdTech_HigherEd) January 17, 2019

What are the IoT protection techniques universities should be using?

In order to keep students safe, it’s crucial that universities keep their security systems up-to-date and track the usage of their IoT devices.

To ensure you’re protected against tech-based threats, these are a few tools that you can suggest to your university…

Intent-based networking

By implementing this new form of networking, there will be regular automated checks on the network to ensure it’s performing as intended and it will determine business goals without user input.

From a security perspective, Cisco believes it to be “an intelligent and innovative system that detects and contains threats everywhere, in real time.”

It also grants universities the software they need to understand what their users are attempting to accomplish. If it’s a harmful activity, they’ll be able to block it before it causes damage.

Deployment of security cameras

Another angle universities might want to take is an increased supply of security cameras around campus.

From car parks to library corners, cyber hackers may hideout around university grounds. Hidden cameras can be useful in catching the culprits.

As long as students are aware that the addition of cameras is for their personal safety, there shouldn’t be any backlash.

Routine password changes

To ensure the protection of laptops, regular password changes and the constant deletion of your browser history would all be wise moves.

If you leave your IoT device lying around campus, there’s a strong chance a potential hacker could pick it up and try to collect your online bank account data or university assignments.

Also remember that essay mills exist, so what’s to stop a cyber hacker from hijacking your essays and selling them online?

Keep an eye on your cyber security at campus! Source: Shutterstock

As EdTech explains, “While the technology behind IoT devices has improved over the past year, hackers have also become more sophisticated, which means universities cannot ignore the possibility of a threat.

“Another way to ensure a more secure IoT network is for campus IT teams to be the ones to install them across campus. This gives them the power to strategise about where IoT devices should live around campus for maximum security and efficiency.”

There’s never been a more important time for universities to invest into tech-based gadgets and personal protective equipment.

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