The Security of the Internet of Things and Big Data
Looking to recruit data security experts in big data and IoT? Our team at Alexander Daniels Global are here to help. In this guide, we’ll explain the security risks associated with big data and how to mitigate them.
What is big data?
Put simply, big data refers to large and complex sets of data that require additional data processing and storage capabilities compared to traditional methods. In additive and advanced manufacturing, big data refers to the vast amount of data generated, collected, and analyzed during the manufacturing process.
How is big data and IoT connected?
IoT devices gather data whereas big data systems store and process it. Big data analytics extracts valuable insights from the IoT-generated data and is used across a number of industries including robotics, energy and construction. In additive and advanced manufacturing, big data can be utilized across a number of applications including;
- Design Process: usually designs used in additive manufacturing are created digitally using CAD software. Simulation tools can help engineers to predict how the design will perform before it’s manufactured and the data generated during this phase will contribute to the big data, which can further be used to refine and optimize the design for production.
- Quality Control: Collecting process data around variable factors such as temperature, humidity and pressure can help to ensure the quality of the manufactured products and identify any patterns that lead to defects.
- Material development: Big data can collect information based on material performance under different conditions. Along with various processing techniques to help research better materials for manufacturing.
- Supply chain management: Big data can be used to manage the supply chain by recording and analyzing buying patterns and production capacity.
What are the security concerns?
Utilizing big data in IoT can leave businesses vulnerable to threats such as cyber attacks and security breaches due to the sensitive nature of the modern manufacturing process.
For example, in defense programs, the military deals with highly classified information, including military strategies, weapon designs and intelligence data. Big data collected through IoT can help analyze different patterns to improve security and defense strategies, but security can be a risk. In the wrong hands access to big data could be catastrophic. Meaning the data should be stored and processed securely.
Hackers may target manufacturing systems in order to disrupt operations, steal sensitive information or cause damage to equipment which can cause potential security risks and disruptions.
If a supplier’s data is compromised, it can lead to a knock-on effect with security vulnerabilities across the whole manufacturing process. There can also be insider threats from employees, contractors or partners who can potentially leak data both intentionally or unintentionally.
Implementing a strategy and adhering to data sovereignty and residency legislation can help protect your data against risk.
What legislation is there to keep data secure?
While there are specific laws in different countries, there are several global legislations in place to protect data from security risks. The table below includes notable legislation that impacts the collection and storage of big data through IoT and advanced manufacturing:
What strategies are there to protect data in advanced manufacturing?
Strict security measures are key to keeping big data secure and protected against cyber attacks or security breaches.
Access Control
It’s important for businesses to implement strong authentication mechanisms like two-factor authentication to ensure logins can’t be shared between multiple people or unauthorized personnel. They could also adopt role-based access controls to ensure (RBAC) to ensure that individuals have access only to the data and systems relevant to their roles.
Data Encryption
Encrypting sensitive data from plain text or readable data to a special code can help keep important data secure, even if access is breached. The level of encryption used should match the level of sensitivity of the data being processed. For example, in manufacturing equipment to be used in defense programs, the data should be heavily encrypted to prevent the risk of data being used in cyber attacks.
Patch Management
Regularly update and patch software, operating systems, and applications of both your IT systems and also any advanced manufacturing equipment that collects or uses data to address vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers.
Continuous Monitoring
Implement continuous security monitoring systems to detect unusual activities or anomalies as they happen. As a response to this, you should have an incident response plan in place to address any potential security breaches and minimize their impact.
Employee Training and Awareness
All employees should be aware of the risks and dangers of cyber attacks and misuse of data. Comprehensive training will help employees learn about security best practices and potential risks.
Risk Assessment
Regular risk assessments will help you to identify any potential threats or vulnerabilities, this should also be done whenever dealing with any third-party vendors or partners before sharing data with them
Data Backup and Recovery
Regularly back up critical data and systems and test restoration procedures to ensure data availability in case of data loss or system failure.
How Can Alexander Daniels Global Help?
Here at Alexander Daniels Global, we conduct direct sourcing through targeted headhunting to access passive candidates alongside our database and extensive network of active candidates. We work across a wide range of disciplines including IoT and software roles. To put it simply, your recruitment needs for working with big data securely can be seamlessly handled by our specialist team – putting the right candidates in front of you when you need them most.
Alternatively, if you’re working in the additive or advanced manufacturing industry with big data and IoT technologies, browse our career portal to apply for our varied open job vacancies.
For more information about how we can help, contact our team of expert recruiters today. We also have a wealth of HR resources, such as our annual salary survey report to help you stay on top of hiring trends.
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