Microsoft Azure IoT Protects Against Cyber Attacks With Expert-Driven Security Program

Microsoft has announced a security programme for its Azure IoT service, aiming to bring in third-party security expertise to prevent Internet of Things (IoT) based cyber attacks.

Sam George, partner director at Microsoft’s Azure IoT division revealed the new security program at IoT Solutions World Congress (IoTSWC) in Barcelona, noting it was in response to customers asking for help in securing the IoT systems they have built on top of Microsoft’s services.

IoT security

“We provide already an industrial strength cloud secure protocol, secure software that runs on any device, operating system; things like that. We’ve also published research papers on best practices for cyber security,” he said.

“But what we hear from customers and partners is: ‘Did I do it right? How do I know, and how do know before the hackers know whether or not my IoT [system] is secure?’ It’s a very common problem.

“[The security program] is a matchmaking service where we have a curated list of security auditor experts that can come on site and inspect your IoT [system] find exploits and provide recommendations, so that you know [of security flaws] before the hackers find out.”

With cyber security auditors being drafted in from companies like, CyberX, Praetorian, Tech Mahindra, and Casaba Security, George noted that the program included expertise in a hole range of IoT-based security; from managing device security to developing cloud-based security strategies.

Given the havoc the Mirai IoT-based botnet wreaked last week, it is not surprise that Microsoft is looking to offer boosted IoT security to its customers.

George also noted that the Azure IoT Hub Device Management service, currently in a preview stage, will be made widely available next month and will see Microsoft update every IoT Hub on its Azure cloud with the new device management features to enable feature like synchronisation states between the cloud and connected devices even when they are in disconnected scenarios, such as the management of vehicle fleets moving in and out of Internet connectivity.

Like many of the major tech companies, Microsoft is going big with its IoT offerings, having recently signed a partnership with GE to tap into its industrial IoT platform, as well as work on IoT starter kits powered by the latest Raspberry Pi micro computers.

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