NIST Introduces New Crypto Standard
The National Institute of Standards and Technology has landed on a standard for encrypting Internet of Things (IoT) communications, a step forward for IoT security. This new encryption standard should help all connected devices in businesses, manufacturing, critical infrastructure, and other sectors running this equipment advance their security.
However, many of these device’s organizations are running are outdated and lag in cybersecurity functions and best practices.
A couple of weeks ago, NIST announced it selected a group of cryptographic algorithms, called Ascon, to be the formal encryption standard for lightweight electronic devices and their communications. By applying a standard, device makers and customers have guidance on how to best secure their data and devices from cyberattacks, especially ones targeting operational technology.
Implementing this NIST standard will not happen overnight, as many IoT vendors are still not even close to running and maintaining cybersecurity best practices. Many devices on the market today have little to no authentication capabilities, are lacking on patches, and have weak or nonexistent logging abilities.
However, even with that being true, NIST issuing a standard for IoT communications will help ensure over time, great cybersecurity measurements will be in place.
Need help evaluating how your IoT communications is affecting your organizations security landscape? Let the experienced team at 2W Tech help! Our team of expert IT Consultants can help work with your business to ensure all the devices connected to your network are secure and all security best practices are being followed within your organization.
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