“Cyber criminals can use personal details, such as your favorite color, the last four digits of your credit card, and your email addresses, to make educated guesses about your sign-in credentials.” – Larry Alton
As we live in this digitally-enhanced era, every day is a giant leap toward digital innovation. The opportunities continue to expand, from the advent of IoT practices to the implementation of smart devices. These technological advancements surround the significant data movement and devices encapsulating.
A significant prospect in the IT landscape is the evolution of massive micro data centres due to the increased demands of edge computing. With the introduction of edge computing, we can operate localised systems far away from primary data sources. Still, with such a massive upgrade, the need for cyber-security measures amplifies significantly. There’s also a rapid increase in cyber-crimes due to the introduction of smart devices. It also makes you think otherwise regarding cloud computing platforms for these systems.
These are just a few factors that revolve around the integration of Edge Computing and cyber security measures. Let us delve more to learn the facts and fiction of cyber security measures around the concept of Edge computing.
Edge Computing – A Much-Needed Evolution
The term “Edge Computing” is relatively new, but the concepts are from ancient technological times. In other words, enterprises have been in search of technological development which could help them expand their horizons to multiple locations simultaneously. The need for excellent and reliable power to operate the remote and branch offices (ROBO) was always on the cards.
The concept of installing systems that operate outside the main data center screams innovation. However, the approach needs to be within our grasp. Keep in mind that these remote locations won’t have your immediate IT staff available.
Another major aspect to ponder is that these branches could be any part of the world, thus, minimizing the quality of connection. With Edge computing, we practically eradicate a gap between enterprises and their ROBO dream. The implementation also tackles the needs and requirements of these remote sites, which are the same as the main hub.
Nonetheless, with great power comes great sacrifice! With Edge Computing in the frame, cybersecurity concerns are off the charts. The circumstances relevant to edge computing left technology experts in a conundrum.
Fact: The Data is Still the Center of Attention
Business owners believe that with edge computing rapidly rising, all they have to do is connect everything. However, by doing that, you’re a single step away from disaster! Nobody disagrees that connecting devices is the original purpose of the new technological landscape. The key is to utilize a vast amount of data efficiently.
A major concern that lurks behind edge computing is computation power. When you’re thinking about working remotely to numerous locations, you’d want your systems to work stupendously. Then again, you end up with a weaker system vulnerable to attacks. Additionally, those attacks which were ineffective against normal systems; end up being a severe threat to edge devices.
Fiction: Your Internet of Things is not Transformational
When we talk about IoT takeover, the implementational itself is transformational. Of course, with millions of devices connected, enterprises can entirely revolutionize their existing IT infrastructure. The convergence can eliminate current barriers that are halting a complete IoT transition.
However, IoT practices pave the way for security concerns that could obliterate organizational IT infrastructures. For starters, there is an issue regarding attack unawareness which can create havoc for your IoT takeover. Experts claim that without UI, users may have limited information about an attack. This way, they won’t be able to discern attacks if they occur on runtime, even on edge systems.
Fact: A Power Grid Assault is Possible
With intelligent devices being implemented by enterprise owners, a few attacks could be disastrous for them. One of them is a power grid assault! This attack is probable, but executing them requires is unlikely – at least for the next few years.
We can’t be too sure about it since we are rushing toward a fully connected mega-grid. But, with edge technologies in the mix, someone is highly likely to pull off a Hollywood-level cybersecurity assault.
Fiction: Cybersecurity is Expensive
The most common myth regarding cybersecurity is that it’s expensive. Yes, it can be costly to some extent, especially if you wish to stay up-to-date with the latest and greatest technological implementations. However, experts suggest that cybersecurity measures on edge computing mechanisms can be integrated without spending too much from your wallet. For instance, you can try end-user education. If you can empower your team to be careful, it can significantly reduce malicious attacks.
Fiction: Better Tech Equals Better Cybersecurity
Revamping internet firewalls and mandating organizational-level password resets are positive steps, but can they hold off cyber criminals? Not in this day and age. The integrity of the business will remain at risk if the employees don’t take personal steps to maximize security on their end.
Most cybersecurity experts suggest that a secured infrastructure is better than preventative technologies. This includes an organization-wide mentality that places value on the company’s data. In an age of digital innovation where hackers are insanely sophisticated in their approach, a diligent and well-informed staff can make all the difference in the world. This also shows that you can protect your business’s vital information by training your staff on the severity of today’s systematic attacks.
Fiction: Only the Biggest Companies are Attacked
It’s safe to say that nobody is safe from cyberattacks these days. In 2015, several big names, like Home Depot and Sony Pictures, were victims of cyberattacks, but smaller organizations are more prone to these attacks. 60% of all small businesses are victims of data breaches. Unfortunately, like large-scale organizations, most of these smaller companies don’t have the resources to recover. So, if you have just started in the business world, don’t take cybercrimes lightly and fortify yourself on the technological level.
Final Thoughts
Cybersecurity is undoubtedly one of the hottest topics in the world of digital innovation today. It represents both a new frontier and an ominous threat for organizations and government entities worldwide. In hindsight, new technologies bring new risks and responsibilities to the landscape. So, uncertainty is everywhere.
As you can see, the advent of edge computing with IoT infrastructure in the frame does show promise. Still, cybersecurity concerns encapsulating it like a kernel are a problem for enterprises. By keeping these facts in check, you can unearth possibly the most viable Edge computing solution not seen today. Just remember that attackers are honing their skills every moment, and you must stay ahead of them to succeed. Remember, technology is the future, only if we are ready for it.
If you’re looking to make the most out of today’s world of digital innovation, you need cybersecurity measures that can do wonders for you. Wintel Technology offers businesses of all sizes to be prepared for the onslaught of modernized technology. Its full-scale cybersecurity services can help businesses prepare for cybercrimes and improve their business processes. Reach out to them today.