CEH Module 18: IoT and OT Hacking Explained

Have you ever paused to consider how your smart gadgets—your Alexa, smart lights, or even your smartwatch—function in perfect sync? These devices form the Internet of Things (IoT), a network of connected technologies designed to make life more efficient by collecting and exchanging data seamlessly. However, while they add convenience, they also open new doors to cyber risks.

Understanding CEH Module 18: IoT and OT Hacking

In the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Module 18, the focus shifts to IoT (Internet of Things) and OT (Operational Technology) security. As we embrace smart technology in our homes and industries, from voice assistants to advanced industrial control systems, the chances of cyber-attacks on these systems are rising rapidly.

Recent cybersecurity reports have shown a sharp rise in attacks on IoT devices, emphasizing the need for proactive security measures to protect them.

What is IoT?

IoT refers to an ecosystem where billions of devices—ranging from household appliances to industrial machines—are interconnected. Each device collects, analyzes, and shares data to create a smarter environment, improving efficiency and user experience.

How Do IoT Devices Work?

Sensors: Devices are equipped with sensors to capture data such as temperature, light, and motion.

IoT Gateways: They transfer collected data securely to processing systems.

Cloud Storage: Data is stored and analyzed in the cloud to generate insights.

Remote Management: Mobile apps allow users to control IoT devices from anywhere, enabling convenience and remote monitoring.

Layers of IoT Architecture

Edge Technology Layer: Sensors and devices gather physical data.
Access Gateway Layer: Bridges data between devices and networks.
Internet Layer: Transfers data over the internet.
Middleware Layer: Filters, manages, and secures data.
Application Layer: Interfaces for users to interact with IoT services.

IoT Communication Models

Device-to-Device: Direct communication using protocols like Bluetooth and ZigBee.
Device-to-Cloud: Devices connect directly to cloud services for data exchange.
Device-to-Gateway: Devices send data to a gateway device before cloud transfer.
Back-End Data Sharing: Authorized third parties access and analyze stored data for extended use.

Why Learning IoT and OT Hacking Matters

With the increasing adoption of IoT in sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, and home automation, vulnerabilities in these devices can lead to significant security threats. Understanding IoT and OT hacking equips ethical hackers with the skills to identify and patch vulnerabilities before malicious attackers exploit them.

Learn CEH with Trekskills

At Trekskills, we empower learners with practical, hands-on CEH training, enabling them to ethically secure IoT and OT environments. Whether you want to advance your career or strengthen your organization's cybersecurity posture, our training helps you master ethical hacking systematically.

Start your journey towards mastering IoT and OT security with Trekskills today.
Contact us to learn more and enroll in CEH training.