As we embrace a connected world where machines have literal and figurative voices, we stand at the confluence of opportunity and responsibility. The IoT and OT landscape continues to evolve rapidly, bridging the physical and digital worlds. However, as Miguel Morales aptly highlighted during the Device Authority Virtual Summit 2024, the promise of IoT hinges on one critical factor: trust.

The Past: Lessons Learned in IoT/OT Security

IoT security has long been plagued by high-profile failures, reminding us of the challenges in scaling and safeguarding connected systems. For example, the Predix platform by GE, which initially garnered significant attention, eventually became a cautionary tale of underestimating the complexities of scaling IoT beyond its experimental phases.

According to Miguel, many companies falter when moving from small-scale projects to widespread deployments. These transitions reveal hidden challenges like device multi-tenancy, global deployments, and secure identity management. A study by Beecham Research confirms this, noting that 35% of companies still lack a coherent digital strategy.

The Present: Integrating IoT, AI, and Cybersecurity

Today, IoT security must contend with unprecedented challenges, especially as artificial intelligence becomes an integral part of connected ecosystems. Large Language Models (LLMs), for example, allow us to interact with devices conversationally. While this opens new doors for operational efficiency, it also raises questions about explicit vs. implicit trust.

Miguel’s insight resonates here: “Whenever we hear a human-like voice, we tend to trust it implicitly.” But in IoT, implicit trust is a risk. Secure identities, robust device authentication, and advanced lifecycle management are non-negotiable for building trust. A notable solution Miguel referenced is Cumulocity IoT’s seamless integration with Device Authority’s KeyScaler for managing device identities and ensuring secure interactions.

Recent stats underline the stakes:

• The IoT cybersecurity market is projected to reach $73.8 billion by 2026 (MarketsandMarkets).
• 68% of organisations have already experienced at least one IoT-focused attack (IoT Security Foundation).

In healthcare, IoT/OT security becomes even more critical. The rise of connected medical devices, like insulin pumps and imaging systems, has introduced life-and-death implications for cybersecurity lapses. Notably, healthcare IoT attacks surged 123% year-over-year in 2022 (Check Point Research).

The Future: AIOT and Responsible Security

As AI and IoT converge into AIoT (Artificial Intelligence of Things), the possibilities for automation, efficiency, and insight are boundless. However, this comes with the caveat of increased complexity in securing devices and data.

Miguel shared a compelling vision of an AI assistant, humorously dubbed “Margaret,” integrated with Cumulocity IoT. Such assistants could revolutionise IoT by enabling intuitive management of device ecosystems, from monitoring compliance to executing firmware updates. Yet, the success of AIoT depends on rigorous security practices, including:

• Continuous Authorisation: Detecting abnormal device behaviour to flag potential compromises.
• Software Bill of Materials (SBOM): Ensuring regulatory compliance and transparency in software components.
• Privileged Access Management: Guaranteeing only authorised personnel or systems can access sensitive device data.

Bridging the Gap

The journey from past to future demands a shift from reactive to proactive IoT/OT security. As Miguel emphasised, “The question is no longer whether you should trust your devices but whether your devices can trust you.” With platforms like Cumulocity IoT and solutions like Device Authority’s KeyScaler, organisations can align security, scalability, and innovation.

The future of IoT/OT security lies not just in advanced technologies but in fostering explicit trust across systems and stakeholders. As we progress, we must remember that true innovation comes hand-in-hand with responsibility.

Want to dive deeper into the challenges and opportunities of IoT/OT security in healthcare? Watch the full webinar, Now That We Can Talk to Our Machines, What Are We Willing to Share? Featuring insights from Miguel Morales of Software AG – Cumulocity. Discover how cutting-edge technologies are shaping the future of connected healthcare and learn actionable strategies to enhance your organization’s security and efficiency.

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