Cyber and Physical Security Vulnerability Assessment for IoT-Based Smart Homes

Area of Science:

• Cybersecurity and Information Technology
• Smart Home Technology
• Risk Assessment Methodologies

Background:

• The Internet of Things (IoT) enables smart homes, offering convenience and efficiency.
• Connecting devices to the internet introduces significant security and privacy challenges.
• Smart homes are vulnerable to attacks due to data confidentiality, authenticity, and integrity issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify security vulnerabilities in IoT-based smart home environments.
• To assess the risks posed to inhabitants by these security weaknesses.
• To propose mitigation strategies for enhancing the security of smart homes.

Main Methods:

• Application of the Operationally Critical Threat, Asset, and Vulnerability Evaluation (OCTAVE) Allegro methodology.
• Focus on information assets, including databases, physical documents, and human elements.
• Systematic assessment of security risks within the smart home context.

Main Results:

• Detailed identification of various security vulnerabilities inherent in IoT-based smart homes.
• Clear presentation of the potential risks and threats to home residents.
• Development of a comprehensive understanding of the smart home security landscape.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a foundation for improving security requirements in IoT smart homes.
• Implementing OCTAVE Allegro aids in a thorough security risk assessment.
• Addressing identified vulnerabilities is crucial for ensuring the safety and privacy of smart home users.