A Systematic Comparison of Default-based Versus Hardened IoT Systems Using Honeypots

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The study “A Systematic Comparison of Default-based Versus Hardened IoT Systems Using Honeypots” explores the security differences between default and hardened IoT configurations using honeypots. Researchers deployed IoT devices with both default and hardened settings, monitoring attack patterns and vulnerabilities through platforms like Shodan, Zabbix, and TPOT.

You Should Know:

1. Honeypot Deployment

Deploying IoT honeypots helps analyze attacker behavior. Common tools include:
– Cowrie (SSH honeypot):

docker run -p 2222:2222 cowrie/cowrie

– T-Pot (Multi-honeypot platform):

git clone https://github.com/telekom-security/tpotce
cd tpotce/iso/installer/
./install.sh --type=auto

2. Shodan for IoT Exposure Checks

Use Shodan to identify exposed IoT devices:

shodan search "default password" port:22 
shodan host <IP> 

3. Hardening IoT Devices

Key steps to secure IoT systems:

  • Disable default credentials:
    passwd  Change default passwords 
    
  • Disable unused services:
    systemctl stop sshd  If SSH is unnecessary 
    systemctl disable sshd 
    
  • Enable firewall rules (UFW):
    sudo ufw enable 
    sudo ufw allow 80/tcp  Only allow necessary ports 
    

4. Monitoring with Zabbix

Deploy Zabbix for real-time IoT security monitoring:

sudo apt install zabbix-server-mysql zabbix-frontend-php 
sudo systemctl enable zabbix-server 

5. Detecting SSH Bruteforce Attacks

Check failed SSH attempts:

grep "Failed password" /var/log/auth.log 

Block repeated attackers with `fail2ban`:

sudo apt install fail2ban 
sudo systemctl start fail2ban 

What Undercode Say

Hardening IoT devices significantly reduces attack surfaces. Default configurations remain prime targets for botnets like Mirai. Using honeypots provides actionable threat intelligence, while tools like Shodan expose vulnerable systems. Continuous monitoring with Zabbix and automated defenses like fail2ban enhance IoT security.

Expected Output:

  • Honeypot logs revealing attack patterns
  • Shodan queries identifying exposed devices
  • Hardened IoT configurations resisting common exploits
  • Automated alerts from Zabbix on suspicious activity

References:

Reported By: Https: – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
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