A company has recently deployed a new IoT device in their network. During the security assessment, it was found that the device is still using default credentials. Which of the following actions is the BEST immediate step to mitigate the potential exploitation of this device?
Disable remote management features on the IoT device to limit network-based attacks.
Update the IoT device firmware to the latest version available from the manufacturer.
Change the default username and password to a complex, unique credential set.
Conduct a thorough vulnerability scan of the device to find potential weaknesses.
Changing default credentials is an essential security measure to prevent unauthorized access, as many attack vectors involve using known defaults to gain control over systems. Attackers often rely on databases of default usernames and passwords-such as those exploited by the Mirai botnet-to compromise devices that have not had their credentials changed from the manufacturer's defaults. Regularly updating device passwords to complex, unique values greatly reduces this risk. Conducting a vulnerability scan or updating firmware, while important, would not address the immediate exposure created by default credentials. Disabling remote management could limit some attack vectors but still leaves the device vulnerable if the credentials remain unchanged.
Ask Bash
Bash is our AI bot, trained to help you pass your exam. AI Generated Content may display inaccurate information, always double-check anything important.
Why is it important to change default credentials on IoT devices?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
What are some best practices for creating strong, unique passwords?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
What risks are associated with leaving IoT devices on default settings?