Adrian Johnson
TLDR:
Key points:
- Forescout Research–Vedere Labs examined nearly 19 million devices to determine the riskiest connected devices of 2024.
- Main vulnerable device types include wireless access points, routers, printers, VoIP devices, and IP cameras.
A Look at the Riskiest Connected Devices of 2024
The cyber threat landscape in 2024 consists of a mix of IT, Internet of Things (IoT), and operational technology (OT), offering various entry points for cyber threat actors. Forescout Research analyzed nearly 19 million devices to identify the riskiest connected devices in organizations. Key findings include:
IT Devices
IT endpoints have traditionally been the primary targets for cyber attackers, but network infrastructure devices have become riskier due to an increase in vulnerabilities. Routers, wireless access points, and hypervisors are among the riskiest IT devices in 2024.
The Internet of Things (IoT)
New additions to the list of risky IoT devices include network video recorders. NAS devices, VoIP, IP cameras, and printers remain top targets for cyber threats. Printers, often overlooked, can be significant conduits for cyber attacks.
Operational Technology
Uninterruptible power sources, distributed control systems, PLCs, robotics, and building management systems are the riskiest devices in the OT sector. Vulnerabilities in these devices pose threats like power loss, production sabotage, and physical damage.
Internet of Medical Things (IoMT)
IoMT devices in 2024 include medical information systems, electrocardiograph machines, DICOM workstations, PACS, and medication-dispensing systems. The exposure of these devices online can lead to patient safety risks and PHI breaches.
About the Author(s)
Tara Seals, Managing Editor, offers insight into the evolving cybersecurity landscape and the importance of addressing vulnerabilities in connected devices.
