When developing firmware for Internet of Things (IoT) devices, security cannot be an afterthought. A single vulnerability can expose user data or even allow malicious actors to take control of physical systems. Here are five of the most common security pitfalls our team at HDTuner encounters and how to avoid them.
1. Hardcoded Credentials
Embedding default usernames, passwords, or API keys directly into the firmware is a recipe for disaster. Attackers can easily extract these credentials from the firmware binary. Instead, require users to set unique credentials on first use and store them securely in non-volatile memory.
2. Lack of Secure Boot
Secure Boot ensures that the device only runs code that is cryptographically signed by a trusted source (you!). Without it, an attacker could potentially load their own malicious firmware onto the device. Implementing a proper chain of trust from the bootloader up is critical.
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