IoT
Shadow IT
Network Security
The Hidden Risks in Your Clients' IoT and Unmanaged Devices
ThreatMate Team
May 30, 2023
4 min read
The Shadow Device Problem
Most networks contain devices that IT doesn't manage: - Smart TVs and digital signage - Security cameras and access systems - Printers and copiers - Personal devices - Legacy systems
Why Unmanaged Devices Are Risky
Invisible to Security Tools - No endpoint agents - No patch management - No configuration monitoring
Often Vulnerable - Default credentials - Outdated firmware - Known vulnerabilities
Network Access - On the same network as critical systems - Potential pivot points for attackers
Finding Unmanaged Devices
Network Scanning - Discover all devices by IP/MAC - Fingerprint operating systems - Identify unknown devices
Traffic Analysis - Monitor network flows - Detect unusual communication patterns - Identify devices phoning home
Asset Inventory Comparison - Compare discovered devices to inventory - Flag unrecognized assets - Investigate anomalies
Securing Unmanaged Devices
- Segment — Isolate IoT on separate network segments
- Harden — Change default passwords, update firmware
- Monitor — Watch for unusual behavior
- Inventory — Maintain accurate device lists
- Policy — Establish approval processes for new devices
ThreatMate's network discovery helps identify unmanaged devices in client environments.
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