IoT Security Threats: How Vulnerable Are Smart Devices?

The rise of smart devices has made our lives easier, more connected, and more efficient. From smart thermostats to internet-connected refrigerators, we now rely on these devices for comfort, convenience, and even safety. But while the benefits are clear, the risks are often overlooked.

1. 98% of all IoT device traffic is unencrypted

This number is shocking. Nearly all of the data that flows through IoT devices isn’t protected. That means anyone who gets access to your network can potentially see your private information—like passwords, security codes, or even personal health data—moving from your device to its cloud service.

Why is this happening? Many IoT devices are built with simplicity in mind, not security. Manufacturers focus on making the device work fast, look sleek, and stay cheap. Encryption, which hides data from prying eyes, is often left out.

If you’re using any kind of smart home device—be it a baby monitor or a doorbell camera—there’s a very high chance the data it’s sending is exposed.

What can you do?

• First, always change the default settings of your IoT devices. Many of them come with open ports and weak encryption by default.
• Second, make sure your home router is updated and supports WPA3 encryption.
• Third, consider placing IoT devices on a separate Wi-Fi network or VLAN. That way, even if someone intercepts their traffic, they won’t get access to your main devices like laptops and phones.
• Finally, avoid using public Wi-Fi when accessing your smart devices remotely. Use a VPN instead for an extra layer of safety.

2. 57% of IoT devices are vulnerable to medium- or high-severity attacks

That’s more than half of all smart devices sitting in homes and offices, exposed and easy to break into. And these aren’t small glitches. We’re talking about flaws that could allow hackers to fully take over the device or even gain access to your broader network.

Many devices aren’t patched often. Some don’t even have the ability to receive updates at all. That means once a vulnerability is discovered, it just stays there. Hackers scan the internet constantly for devices with known problems—and they know exactly what to look for.

So what should you do?

Start by listing all the smart devices you have. Most people underestimate how many they actually own. Once you have your list, check the manufacturer’s website to see if there are any firmware updates available.

Set reminders to do this every couple of months. If a device hasn’t received any updates for more than a year, that’s a red flag. You might want to consider replacing it with a more secure version or at least limit how much access it has on your network.

Also, keep an eye on cybersecurity news. If a vulnerability is found in a device you own, act quickly. Disconnect it if needed until a fix is released.

3. 1.5 billion IoT attacks were detected in the first half of 2021 alone

That’s not a typo. Just in six months, cybersecurity systems identified over a billion and a half attempts to exploit IoT devices. These weren’t just random tests; they were real attacks aimed at taking control, stealing data, or building botnets to launch even bigger threats.

This number proves that IoT devices are now one of the most targeted parts of the internet.

Hackers know that smart devices are soft targets. They’re often poorly protected, always online, and connected to more valuable systems. Once compromised, they can be used to send spam, launch DDoS attacks, or spy on users.

To reduce your risk:

• Make sure your devices are not directly exposed to the internet. Use firewalls and disable remote access unless you really need it.
• Use strong, unique passwords for every device. Avoid reusing passwords from other accounts.
• Enable two-factor authentication if your smart device’s app allows it.
• Invest in a smart home firewall or security gateway. These tools are designed to monitor and protect IoT traffic specifically.

The more active you are in managing your network, the harder it becomes for attackers to get in.

4. 60% of organizations using IoT devices have experienced a security incident

This stat affects businesses, but the lessons apply to everyone. More than half of organizations that use IoT devices—like smart security cameras, connected thermostats, or factory sensors—have already faced a breach or attack.

Often, it’s not a dramatic system takedown. It could be a small backdoor that gives hackers access to sensitive systems over time. But even those low-level attacks can cause major damage later.

So why are companies struggling?

Because IoT security is often left out of the main IT strategy. Teams focus on securing computers and servers, but smart devices are seen as secondary—and that’s a big mistake.

Even if you’re just a home user, think like a company:

• Do an audit of your devices. Know what you have and where it connects.
• Regularly review access logs if your devices or router support it.
• Separate your work and personal devices from your smart home setup. Use guest networks where possible.

And for businesses, it’s time to bring IoT under your main cybersecurity policy. Train employees, assign device management to your IT team, and work with vendors that take security seriously.

5. 80% of healthcare IoT devices have critical vulnerabilities

Healthcare devices, like connected insulin pumps, heart monitors, and imaging equipment, are some of the most sensitive—and they’re also some of the most exposed. This stat is terrifying because it’s not just about data—it’s about people’s lives.

Many medical devices still use outdated operating systems. Others don’t have encryption or secure authentication. That means a hacker could, in theory, alter medical data or even interfere with how a device functions.

If you or a loved one uses a connected medical device at home, here’s what you need to know:

• Always register the device with the manufacturer to get notified of recalls or updates.
• Keep the device’s companion app updated. These often carry the latest security patches.
• Avoid connecting the device to public or shared Wi-Fi networks.
• If you have the option, set strong access controls within the device’s app.

And if you’re a healthcare provider, it’s essential to invest in network segmentation. Keep patient-care devices on a separate network from admin or public networks. Also, train staff on how to spot unusual behavior from connected equipment.

6. 25% of all cyberattacks target IoT devices

A quarter of all cyberattacks across the globe are now focused on smart devices. That’s an incredible amount of attention being paid to items like smart thermostats, baby monitors, or even voice assistants. Attackers are no longer just going after big targets like banks or government systems—they’re aiming straight at everyday technology.

Why the shift? Because IoT devices are often the weakest link. They’re small, often run outdated software, and are usually forgotten once installed. Hackers love easy targets, and smart devices are just that.

If one device gets compromised, it can become a backdoor into your entire network. From there, attackers can jump to other connected systems like your phone, computer, or even cloud accounts.

Here’s how you can make sure your devices aren’t easy prey:

• Unplug or disconnect devices you don’t use regularly. Idle devices are still attack surfaces.
• Avoid buying unknown brands with no security reputation. Look for brands that talk about updates and support.
• Use a network monitoring tool to keep an eye on unusual traffic. If your smart speaker suddenly starts using a lot of bandwidth, it might be compromised.
• Disable unnecessary features. If your smart lightbulb has a camera or microphone you don’t use, turn them off if possible.

Staying ahead of attackers doesn’t require you to be an expert. Just be proactive, and don’t ignore your smart devices after setting them up.

7. 87% of companies lack visibility into all IoT devices on their network

Imagine not knowing how many windows are open in your house while a storm is coming. That’s what it’s like when businesses don’t know what IoT devices are on their networks. Almost 9 out of 10 companies can’t fully track or manage their connected devices—and that’s a big problem.

Many of these devices are added without going through proper IT channels. Someone installs a smart whiteboard or a coffee machine that connects to Wi-Fi, and now the network has another potential entry point.

The same happens in homes. People buy smart speakers, cameras, or TVs and connect them without thinking twice. But if you don’t know what’s connected, you can’t protect it.

Here’s what you should do:

• Use your router’s admin panel to list connected devices. Most modern routers show device names, IP addresses, and connection times.
• Rename devices with clear labels so you can identify them quickly (e.g., “KitchenCamera” instead of “UnknownDevice#13”).
• Set up alerts for new device connections. Many routers and firewalls can notify you when a new item joins the network.
• Schedule a monthly check. Just like you check the batteries in your smoke detector, take 10 minutes to review your connected devices.

Visibility is the first step to control. If you don’t know what’s out there, you can’t defend it.

8. 46% of manufacturers do not update IoT device firmware regularly

Almost half of IoT device makers don’t push regular updates. That’s scary, because firmware is the core software that makes the device run. If vulnerabilities are found—and they often are—they go unpatched, leaving users exposed for months or even years.

Unlike phones and computers, which we’re used to updating all the time, many IoT devices are set-and-forget. And that’s exactly what hackers count on.

For example, a known bug in a smart security camera might be fixed by one brand in days. Another brand might never fix it at all.

As a user, you have more power than you think:

• Before buying a device, check the manufacturer’s website for firmware update history. If the last update was more than a year ago, be cautious.
• After setup, immediately check for updates. Most devices let you do this from the companion app.
• Enable automatic updates if available. That way, you won’t forget to apply important patches.
• Avoid devices that don’t offer any update option. That’s a sign the manufacturer is not prioritizing your security.

A good device is one that evolves and improves over time—not one that’s abandoned after the sale.

9. 75% of IoT attacks are aimed at routers and connected cameras

Your router is the front door of your digital home, and smart cameras are the eyes. That makes them prime targets. Three out of four IoT-related attacks are directed at just these two types of devices.

Hackers love routers because they sit at the center of your network. If they can compromise it, they can monitor, block, or redirect your internet traffic. Cameras, on the other hand, offer direct access to your privacy. There have been many cases where hackers accessed live feeds from insecure cameras.

So how do you protect these critical devices?

For routers:

• Change the default admin username and password immediately.
• Disable remote management if you’re not using it.
• Update the firmware regularly—just like with IoT devices.
• Use a strong Wi-Fi password and WPA3 encryption if supported.

For cameras:

• Never buy a camera that doesn’t offer encrypted streaming.
• Place cameras where they won’t capture sensitive activities.
• Regularly review access logs (if available) to see who accessed the feed.
• Use two-factor authentication on the camera app.

These steps might take a few minutes, but they could prevent someone from watching your home—or worse—without your knowledge.

10. Only 14% of IoT manufacturers implement proper security measures

That’s a tough stat to digest. Less than one in five companies that make smart devices actually take security seriously. Most are focused on features, design, or speed to market. Security comes as an afterthought, if at all.

This leads to weak or no encryption, default passwords, hardcoded credentials, and lack of secure communication channels. The result? A flood of vulnerable devices on the market.

As a consumer or business, you need to choose wisely:

• Look for brands that publish security whitepapers or partner with third-party security firms.
• Avoid ultra-cheap devices from unknown brands. The savings aren’t worth the risk.
• Ask customer support about their update policy or how they handle vulnerability reports.
• Join online forums or communities that discuss IoT device safety. Real user reviews often reveal security issues the product page doesn’t mention.

You don’t have to be a cybersecurity expert. Just ask more questions before buying—and choose brands that treat your security like their responsibility.

11. 92% of modern printers are susceptible to IoT-related vulnerabilities

Printers may not be the first devices that come to mind when you think of smart tech, but today’s printers are networked, cloud-connected, and full of features that make them part of the IoT world. Unfortunately, a staggering 92% of them have vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit.

Printers store data—scanned documents, print history, and even login credentials. Some even retain copies of printed files in their memory. If compromised, these devices can leak sensitive business or personal data without anyone noticing.

Printers are also often overlooked when it comes to security policies. People think of them as simple tools, not potential entry points.

Here’s how to secure yours:

• Always change the default admin password.
• Disable unused services like FTP, Telnet, or cloud printing features you don’t use.
• Turn off Wi-Fi Direct or Bluetooth if they’re not needed.
• Regularly update the firmware via the manufacturer’s official site or management portal.
• Place your printer on a separate VLAN or guest network to isolate it from critical systems.

Treat your printer like any other computer. If it’s on the network, it can be attacked—so give it the same protection you’d give a laptop or server.

12. The average IoT device has 20+ potential attack vectors

Every device, no matter how simple it seems, has multiple ways it can be compromised. That’s what this stat highlights: your smart lightbulb, fridge, or thermostat might look harmless, but each one can have 20 or more weaknesses in its software, hardware, or network setup.

These attack vectors can include open ports, outdated libraries, weak authentication methods, lack of encryption, insecure APIs, default credentials, and more. Even things like voice controls or mobile app connections can introduce risk.

What does this mean for you?

It means that assuming a device is “too basic to hack” is dangerous thinking. Instead, you need to assume every device is vulnerable until proven otherwise.

Here are some smart actions:

• When setting up a device, go through each setting in the app or web interface. Disable features you won’t use.
• Use devices from brands that actively engage in bug bounty programs or publish security updates regularly.
• Read user manuals and documentation. You might find options for restricting access or adding PINs that aren’t enabled by default.
• Use network segmentation or firewalls to prevent devices from talking to each other unless necessary.

It might sound complex, but even basic steps like turning off remote access or setting strong passwords make a big difference in reducing those 20+ potential paths.

13. Over 70% of smart home devices can be hacked within minutes

That’s not an exaggeration. Most smart home devices can be breached in a matter of minutes if the attacker has basic tools and knowledge. That’s how exposed they are.

Many devices still ship with default usernames like “admin” and passwords like “1234.” Others run on outdated firmware or broadcast open ports that anyone can connect to.

If an attacker gets within range of your Wi-Fi—or if your router is weak—they can quickly gain control over devices like smart plugs, door locks, or security cameras.

To avoid this:

• Change default passwords as soon as you set up the device. Make it long, random, and unique.
• Disable UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) on your router unless a specific device requires it.
• Keep your Wi-Fi network private, hidden, and protected with a strong WPA3 password.
• Don’t expose IoT devices to the public internet. Many apps offer “cloud access,” but it’s better to use secure methods like VPNs.

Also, remember that many attacks come from within the home network. A compromised phone or laptop can serve as the launchpad. Keep all your devices patched and updated to stop one weak link from bringing the rest down.

14. 50% of smart thermostats expose user data due to weak encryption

Smart thermostats are great for comfort and energy savings. But half of them leak user data because they don’t encrypt it properly. That means anyone listening to the traffic between your device and its server could see things like your location, heating patterns, or even your home/away schedule.

That data can be used in creepy ways—like predicting when you’re not home.

A lot of this happens because devices try to save power or bandwidth by using outdated or simple protocols that skip encryption. Other times, developers simply didn’t build in the right protections.

Here’s what you can do:

• Choose thermostats that explicitly list security features like end-to-end encryption.
• Avoid brands that don’t allow local control or require always-on cloud connectivity.
• Check if your device’s mobile app has HTTPS communication. If not, that’s a big red flag.
• Set device schedules manually or randomly if you’re concerned about data being used to track your habits.

Also, consider using your router’s firewall to block outbound traffic when the device isn’t in use. This prevents constant pings to cloud servers and keeps your schedule private.

15. The Mirai botnet used over 600,000 IoT devices for DDoS attacks in 2016

One of the most famous IoT attacks in history was the Mirai botnet. It took over more than 600,000 devices—mainly routers, DVRs, and cameras—and used them to flood websites with traffic, making major services like Netflix and Twitter go offline.

The attack worked by scanning the internet for devices with open ports and default passwords. Once it found them, it took control and added them to its botnet.

Mirai taught the world how dangerous unsecured smart devices can be—not just to the owner, but to everyone on the internet.

Today, variants of Mirai still exist, and the same types of devices are still being targeted.

How to avoid becoming part of a botnet:

• Disable remote access to your devices unless absolutely necessary.
• Regularly reboot smart devices. Some malware lives only in memory and vanishes after a restart.
• Use monitoring tools to detect unusual outbound traffic from your network.
• Disable unused ports and services. If your camera doesn’t need FTP, turn it off.

Even if your device isn’t storing personal data, it can still be weaponized. Don’t let your tech become a tool for someone else’s attack.

16. 83% of medical imaging devices run on outdated operating systems

Medical imaging machines like MRIs, CT scanners, and X-ray systems often run on old versions of Windows or Linux that no longer receive security updates. That’s a huge problem in hospitals and clinics where patient data is handled daily.

These devices often can’t be updated easily because they’re expensive, regulated, and tied to critical workflows. But outdated software means open doors for malware or ransomware.

While this mostly affects hospitals, patients and caregivers using home medical devices should also be careful.

Here’s what can help:

• If you work in healthcare IT, push for regular device audits and risk assessments.
• Use network segmentation to keep these devices separate from other systems like email or billing.
• If you’re a patient, ask your provider how your medical data is protected—and which devices are used to manage it.
• Avoid connecting personal medical equipment to public Wi-Fi or shared home networks.

Medical IoT is one of the most sensitive areas of security. It deserves just as much protection as any financial or legal system.

17. Smart TVs are the third most targeted IoT device category

We use them for streaming, browsing, gaming—even voice control. But smart TVs are a growing target for attackers, ranking just behind routers and cameras.

Why? Because many smart TVs have built-in microphones and cameras. Some also connect to cloud services and can store user data like viewing habits, login details, and app usage.

Hackers can exploit bugs in TV operating systems or target unsecured apps. They can also use phishing tactics through fake update messages or sketchy app downloads.

To stay safe:

• Disable the TV’s microphone and camera if you’re not using them.
• Use a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi for more control over data flow.
• Don’t install third-party apps from unknown sources.
• Keep the firmware updated. Set a reminder if your TV doesn’t do it automatically.

And if your TV has voice search, be mindful of what you say around it. Some systems are always listening—and not all of them are secure.

18. 41% of industrial IoT devices operate on insecure legacy protocols

In factories and industrial sites, connected devices control everything from temperature sensors to robotic arms. But nearly half still use outdated communication methods that don’t encrypt data or validate identities.

These legacy protocols were designed when cybersecurity wasn’t a concern. Today, they’re easy targets for attackers who want to disrupt operations or steal proprietary data.

If you work in industrial IT:

• Invest in gateway devices that act as translators between old and new protocols, adding encryption and access control.
• Use network segmentation to separate industrial controls from business networks.
• Monitor all device traffic for unusual patterns, such as connections outside working hours.
• Push vendors for updated firmware and better security documentation.

If you’re a vendor or contractor entering these environments, make sure your tools follow modern security practices. Even one insecure laptop can compromise an entire plant.

19. Only 19% of consumers regularly change default passwords on IoT devices

This stat says it all. Default passwords are the #1 way hackers gain access to smart devices—and less than one in five people actually bother to change them.

It’s not laziness. Often, users don’t realize there is a default password, or they assume the device is secure out of the box.

But default credentials are publicly listed online for thousands of devices. Hackers have tools that scan the internet looking for them.

Fixing this is simple and fast:

• The moment you install a smart device, go into the settings and look for “Admin,” “Password,” or “Security.”
• Create a password that’s unique and at least 12 characters long.
• Use a password manager to store and remember complex ones.
• Avoid using names, birthdays, or common words.

Changing your default password might be the single most effective security step you take this year.

20. 91% of smart door locks have exploitable vulnerabilities

Smart locks are meant to keep you safe—but nearly all of them have been found to contain security flaws. These range from weak encryption to bugs in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi pairing processes.

Some smart locks can even be opened using a cloned signal or brute-force attacks, depending on the brand.

This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use smart locks—it means you need to use them wisely.

Here’s how:

• Choose a lock that supports encrypted communication and has received third-party security audits.
• Avoid locks that rely only on Bluetooth without passcodes or two-factor authentication.
• Keep firmware up to date via the companion app.
• Disable voice unlocking features unless they require a spoken PIN.

Smart locks should enhance your home’s security, not weaken it. Choose quality over convenience, and you’ll stay protected.

21. 65% of security professionals believe IoT devices are the weakest link in their infrastructure

Even the experts are worried. When nearly two-thirds of cybersecurity professionals point to IoT devices as the most vulnerable part of their systems, it’s time to pay attention.

These professionals manage everything from firewalls to cloud platforms, but IoT devices often fall outside their direct control. That’s because many are managed by facilities teams, installed without IT input, or lack proper update mechanisms.

The takeaway here is that smart devices—when not secured—can silently open doors for attackers, and even the best defenses can’t fully compensate for a weak link.

So, what can both professionals and consumers do?

• Make IoT devices part of your formal risk assessments. Don’t treat them as outliers.
• Create policies for bringing any new device into the environment, whether it’s a smart light, speaker, or access system.
• Train users on the risks. Many people don’t realize a smart whiteboard or voice assistant can become a security liability.
• Create network zones that isolate IoT devices from sensitive internal systems.

If experts are worried, we should all take a second look at our own setups. The “it won’t happen to me” mindset just doesn’t work with smart tech.

22. 89% of smart home hubs lack sufficient authentication mechanisms

Smart home hubs control everything—from lights and locks to cameras and alarms. But nearly 9 out of 10 of them don’t have strong login protections. That means once someone gets access, they can control your entire home ecosystem.

This could happen through weak app security, shared passwords, or even hardcoded credentials inside the hub itself.

That’s a serious problem because the hub is the brain of your smart home. If compromised, it can turn off your alarms, unlock your doors, or monitor your routines.

Here’s how to protect your hub:

• Use a hub that supports two-factor authentication. It’s becoming more common.
• Don’t use the same password you use for other services—especially not your email or social media.
• Keep the hub’s firmware up to date. Updates often fix vulnerabilities that attackers look for.
• Disable features you don’t use, such as remote access or voice control, unless you need them.

If your hub feels outdated or rarely gets updates, it may be time to upgrade. Your home’s security depends on it.

23. 61% of organizations say IoT security is more challenging than traditional IT

Managing security for laptops, servers, and mobile devices is already tough. But 61% of organizations say IoT devices add a whole new layer of complexity. Why? Because these devices are often “black boxes” with little transparency.

Traditional IT systems allow for centralized patching, antivirus software, and detailed monitoring. Most IoT devices don’t support those tools. That makes it harder to detect and respond to threats.

To make IoT security more manageable:

• Build an inventory of all devices, including vendor names, IP addresses, and firmware versions.
• Set up alerts for abnormal behavior—like a thermostat sending traffic to an overseas server.
• Include IoT security in your onboarding and offboarding process, especially for facility and operational tech teams.
• Work with vendors who understand the importance of secure design. Ask about encryption, update support, and vulnerability disclosures before buying.

IoT devices aren’t going away, so organizations need to adapt. The key is to build visibility, control, and response into every layer of the network.

24. Nearly 100 million smart devices were found infected with malware in 2022

This stat is terrifying. Almost 100 million smart devices—things like light bulbs, speakers, cameras, and routers—were actively infected by malware in a single year.

These infected devices often become part of massive botnets, used to launch attacks, send spam, or spread more malware. The owners usually have no idea anything is wrong.

Why does this happen? Because the infection process is silent. The device still works, so users assume everything is fine.

How to defend against silent infections:

• Use endpoint security systems designed for IoT, which can detect and alert on odd behavior.
• Reboot your devices regularly. Some malware doesn’t survive a power cycle.
• Watch your internet speed. If things slow down or you notice spikes in usage, something may be wrong.
• Block outgoing connections to unknown IP addresses using your router’s firewall settings.

Malware doesn’t need to crash your system to be dangerous. Sometimes, it just waits quietly until it’s called into action. That’s why regular monitoring and maintenance are so important.

25. 70% of smart speakers have insecure firmware update mechanisms

Smart speakers are always listening, and they often serve as the voice interface for your entire home. But 70% of them can be tricked or exploited during firmware updates.

If a hacker can fake a firmware update—or intercept one mid-download—they could inject malicious code into your device. From there, they might eavesdrop, control other devices, or use your network for further attacks.

To avoid this:

• Only buy from trusted brands that encrypt firmware updates and verify their integrity.
• Don’t connect your smart speaker to guest or public Wi-Fi networks.
• Disable features like third-party voice skills or actions unless you trust the developer.
• Schedule updates manually if your device supports it, so you can control when it connects to update servers.

Also, position your speaker thoughtfully. Avoid placing it near windows or doors, where outside voices or signals could potentially trigger it.

26. Over 90% of IoT traffic goes through public or poorly secured networks

Most IoT devices aren’t built with enterprise-grade network security in mind. That’s why more than 90% of their traffic moves through insecure or semi-public channels.

This means hackers can “listen in” on what your devices are saying to their servers—especially if they’re on open Wi-Fi, cheap mobile hotspots, or poorly configured routers.

Your device may be secure at home but totally exposed when traveling or used in other locations.

Here’s what you can do:

• Avoid public Wi-Fi for controlling or connecting your smart devices. Use a mobile hotspot or VPN instead.
• Create a dedicated IoT network at home. Many routers allow you to split traffic into separate virtual networks.
• Use DNS filtering tools to block access to known bad domains.
• If your device supports encrypted protocols like HTTPS or TLS, enable them.

Secure networks start at the foundation. Your devices are only as safe as the path their data takes.

27. 30% of organizations do not have an IoT security policy in place

Despite the growing number of threats, nearly a third of businesses have no formal plan for managing IoT security. That leaves them vulnerable to attacks that could easily be avoided with just a bit of planning.

An IoT security policy doesn’t have to be complicated. It simply outlines how devices are selected, configured, monitored, and updated.

If your organization doesn’t have one yet, start here:

• Assign someone ownership of IoT device management.
• Define clear steps for onboarding new devices, including password changes and firmware checks.
• Establish update schedules and routine security audits.
• Document what to do in case of an incident, like disconnecting or replacing compromised devices.

Even small companies can benefit from having a basic policy in place. It shows that you take security seriously and reduces your exposure to avoidable risks.

28. IoT device infections increased by 700% over the past 3 years

This explosion in infections shows just how fast the threat landscape is changing. A 700% increase means attackers are shifting focus toward these devices faster than most people can keep up.

It also means that what was secure three years ago might now be completely outdated.

Attackers are getting smarter, and tools that scan for and exploit IoT vulnerabilities are becoming more available.

Here’s how you can stay ahead:

• Replace older devices that no longer receive updates.
• Use tools like network scanners or threat detection appliances that focus on IoT behavior.
• Subscribe to threat feeds or newsletters from cybersecurity organizations.
• Avoid “set and forget” behavior. Every device should be reviewed regularly.

Security isn’t a one-time thing. It’s a process that adapts with new information—and this stat proves how urgent that adaptation needs to be.

29. 78% of consumers are unaware their smart devices can be hacked

Most people don’t even know their smart devices can be targeted. That’s a big problem because awareness is the first step toward protection.

Many consumers assume manufacturers have “taken care of security,” but that’s rarely the case. If users aren’t aware of the risks, they won’t take steps like updating firmware, using strong passwords, or checking settings.

If you’re someone who feels unsure, you’re not alone—and you’re not helpless.

Start by:

• Googling the name of your device plus “security vulnerabilities” to see if there are known issues.
• Reading your device’s manual. It often lists security settings and update instructions.
• Visiting your router’s admin page and checking connected devices—many people find surprises there.
• Sharing what you learn with friends or family. The more people know, the safer we all are.

Knowledge is power. The more you understand, the less chance you’ll fall victim to something preventable.

30. The average time to detect an IoT breach is 207 days

That’s almost seven months of silent exposure. During that time, hackers can collect data, control devices, or pivot into more sensitive parts of your network.

IoT breaches are hard to detect because many devices don’t log activity, alert users, or integrate with security software.

To reduce this window:

• Use intrusion detection systems (IDS) that can monitor traffic and flag unusual behavior.
• Review access logs from your router and devices regularly.
• Set up bandwidth usage alerts. A sudden spike might be a sign something’s wrong.
• When in doubt, factory reset the device and set it up again from scratch.

Detection time matters. The faster you notice a problem, the less damage it can do.

wrapping it up

The numbers don’t lie—IoT devices are one of the most exposed parts of our digital lives. But you don’t need to live in fear. By understanding the risks and following simple, practical steps, you can make your smart devices—and your home or business—much harder to hack.