As the Internet grows and becomes a larger and larger part of our lives, so does the threat of cyber attacks disrupting that same part of our lives. The Internet of Things has grown exponentially in recent years, with more and more people adopting smart devices into their home every day. From smart thermostats to automated coffee makers, to even wireless door locks, it is becoming harder and harder to exist without one of these devices. However, many of the IoT devices that consumers purchase and integrate into their lives are woefully underprepared for being put into a world filled with cyberattacks. A large portion of the devices are susceptible to outsider attacks, and can even be leveraged into performing denial of service attacks on whatever sites the attackers choose. These vulnerabilities are even, unfortunately, promoted by the market – because many consumers simply want the cheapest product, and are uninformed about the dangers of poor security, they often opt to choose products that are highly susceptible to becoming a target for this attack. This paper talks about the shortcomings of devices currently on the market, and proposes ways that the government can incentivize companies and consumers to choose products that protect not only themselves, but the Internet as a whole.
