Enhancing IoT Security Through Penetration Testing for A Major IoT Provider

Serving 52,000+ global customers and handling 39+ billion data readings, this IoT leader required specialized ICS pentesting for sensors and gateways running protocols like Modbus and DNP3. InterSec’s in-depth testing exposed critical vulnerabilities and fortified a globally distributed IoT ecosystem.

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Background

Focused on the Internet of Things (IoT) industry, this provider sells over 2,000 product SKUs worldwide. Their technology captures billions of data points, supporting critical business decisions across a diverse customer base.

The Client

A Global IOT Provider

Industry

Tech

The Challenge

Massive Attack Surface: Thousands of devices deployed globally, each potentially vulnerable.
Complex ICS Protocols: Traditional pentests often miss specialized industrial protocols like Modbus and DNP3.
High-Value Data: Data integrity and availability were paramount for the client’s reputation and bottom line.

Approach and Strategy

Custom ICS Pentesting Framework: Targeted device-level vulnerabilities unique to industrial environments.
Collaboration with Client Teams: Coordinated with IT and DevOps for safe test scheduling and fallback plans.
Risk-Based Prioritization: Focused efforts on the most critical data flows and devices first.

Solution & Implementation

Specialized Testing Lab
- Replicated real-world ICS environments to safely simulate potential attacks on gateways and sensors.
Comprehensive Penetration Testing
- Explored hardware, firmware, and network-layer exploits, revealing gaps in authentication and data encryption.
Detailed Reports & Knowledge Transfer
- Provided root-cause findings, recommended remediations, and best-practice guidelines for ongoing security.

Results / Outcomes

Hidden Vulnerabilities Discovered: Identified crucial firmware misconfigurations and weak authentication flows.
Strengthened Security Posture: Reduced risk exposure by implementing recommended security upgrades.
Enhanced Operational Continuity: Uninterrupted data services for 52,000+ customers, reinforcing client trust.

Lesson Learned

Deep ICS Expertise: InterSec’s familiarity with specialized protocols uncovered vulnerabilities typical tests might overlook.
Proactive Mitigation: Early detection minimized the potential for widespread device compromises.
Scalable Practices: Improvements can extend to future IoT devices, providing long-term resilience.