Devices or attackers impersonating a trusted device or user could use that status to conduct a range of illicit activities, such as a man-in-the-middle attack, tapping into corporate networks, and more. Advanced persistent threats can take control of device software to steal customer information or intellectual property.

Insufficient security over code updates can allow hackers an entry point to the device in order to launch attacks or steal data from the device itself. Without adequate security measures at the factory, unauthorized code can also be introduced during the production process itself.

Unsecured manufacturing processes can lead to production of unauthorized units that can be sold on the black market, either with authentic branding or white labeled. This exposes the organization to significant financial and reputational damage.

Manufacturers use nCipher nShield HSMs in conjunction with security applications to secure root signing keys and the issuance of digital certificates, which are injected into connected devices during the production process. The nShield provides end-to-end protection of the certificate and key generation, and device insertion process, allowing for strong authentication of each device. Read our Polycom case study for a detailed example.

Without proper security over software and firmware updates, hackers can inject unauthorized code onto devices to launch attacks or establish a trusted connection to corporate networks. With strong authentication in place, using HSMs to establish a root of trust, the device can validate that any code being introduced comes from a trusted publisher.

The best practice to confirm the integrity of code updates and defend against the risks associated with software tampering is to ensure that code is signed highly secure signing processes with private signing keys protected by HSMs. nCipher nShield HSMs are trusted by manufacturers worldwide to secure their critical keys.

By defending against the production of unauthorized units you can mitigate the brand and financial damage associated with overbuilding and cloning, especially with remote manufacturing facilities.

By allowing only unauthorized code to run on devices you can defend against:

• hackers using the device's trusted status to tap into networks or conduct man-in-the-middle attacks
• software that sidesteps organizational policies
• erroneous or malicious code introduced by vendors in your supply chain

With the ability to update devices deployed in the field, you can reduce the time and costs associated with in-person updates. You can also deliver firmware updates that create new revenue opportunities through improved product performance or additional functionality.