IoT and OT Hacking

IoT (Internet of Things) and OT (Operational Technology) Hacking involve exploiting vulnerabilities in connected devices and industrial control systems. IoT Hacking targets consumer and enterprise devices connected to the internet - smart thermostats, cameras, medical devices, and other everyday objects with network capabilities. These devices often have security weaknesses like default credentials, unpatched firmware, insecure interfaces, and minimal encryption. Attackers can compromise them to steal data, create botnets (like Mirai), pivot to other network systems, or cause physical impact through device manipulation. OT Hacking focuses on industrial control systems that manage critical infrastructure and manufacturing processes - SCADA systems, PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), and ICS (Industrial Control Systems). These technologies were traditionally isolated but are increasingly connected to corporate networks and the internet. Many OT systems use legacy protocols designed for functionality rather than security, lack authentication mechanisms, and run outdated software that can't be easily patched. The consequences of OT attacks can be severe, potentially disrupting essential services or causing physical damage, as demonstrated by attacks like Stuxnet, which targeted Iranian nuclear facilities, and the Ukraine power grid attacks. CEH professionals addressing these threats must understand protocols like MQTT, CoAP, and Modbus, employ specialized scanning tools that won't disrupt operational systems, and recognize the IT-OT convergence challenges. Security approaches include network segmentation, frequent firmware updates, credential management, anomaly detection, and physical security measures. As IoT devices proliferate (projected to reach 75 billion by 2025) and industrial systems become more connected, understanding these attack vectors becomes increasingly important for ethical hackers.

IoT (Internet of Things) and OT (Operational Technology) Hacking involve exploiting vulnerabilities in connected devices and industrial control systems. IoT Hacking targets consumer and enterprise d…

Concepts covered: IoT Hacking Methodology, IoT Hacking Tools, IoT Concepts, IoT Attacks, IoT Countermeasures, OT Concepts, OT Attacks, OT Hacking Methodology, OT Hacking Tools, OT Countermeasures