Where is Embedded Security required?

Embedded security is crucial in any product where data integrity, confidentiality, and availability are paramount. Applications which are connected to a network are most at risk as this is potentially an easy way in for the hacker. However, the product doesn’t have to be connected to be at risk. Unless a secure supply chain and methods are used, products can be attacked from the very outset at any stage of development or manufacturing.

Essentially, if firmware files become accessible, through whatever means to a hacker, it can be maliciously altered or cloned, either to cause damage or clone the product.

Here are some of the most critical areas where taking steps to protect firmware and identity should absolutely be considered.

Internet of Things (IoT)

• Smart homes: Protecting personal information and preventing unauthorized access.
  
  • Heating / Cooling systems
  • Access Control / Door Bells
  • Smart sensors
  • Consumer products – Coffee machines, Smart kitchen appliances, smart speakers, displays
• Industrial IoT: Securing important, high value machinery and robotics
• Wearable devices: Safeguarding personal health data and preventing device hijacking.

Automotive Industry

• Connected cars: Protecting vehicle systems from hacking and ensuring driver safety.
• Autonomous vehicles: Safeguarding complex systems and preventing malicious interference.

Critical Infrastructure

• Power grids: Protecting against cyberattacks that could cause widespread blackouts.
• Utility plants: Preventing contamination or disruptions.
• Transportation systems: Ensuring the safety and reliability of public transport.
• Healthcare facilities: Safeguarding patient data and preventing disruptions to medical

Defense and Aerospace

• Military systems: Protecting sensitive information and preventing equipment failure.
• Aerospace systems: Ensuring aircraft safety and preventing cyberattacks.

All of the forementioned applications are potentially at risk to hackers if the correct embedded security isn’t implemented. Common vulnerabilities that are often used to attack are:

• Lack of firmware encryption
• Insufficient authentication using a validated identity.
• Weak or default passwords
• Roll back of firmware updates
• Insecure network protocols

Addressing these vulnerabilities through robust embedded security practices is essential to protect embedded product end users and manufacturers. It’s important to remember that systems are only as robust as their weakest link. For example, if your product is a sensor in a car, connected to the cars network, the entire system could possibly by accessed through this weak spot. Therefore it’s essential to secure it.

Whilst we have mentioned some critical areas here, any embedded product can benefit from embedded security. It can take the simplest or most advanced form depending on the threat category.