Is Your Smart Office a Security Risk? What Small Businesses Need to Know About IoT

Posted 18th September 2025

Your office thermostat, conference room speaker, and smart badge reader are convenient – but they’re also potential doors into your network.

With more devices than ever in play, keeping track can be tricky, and it only takes one weak link to put your entire system at risk.

That’s why smart IT solutions matter now more than ever. A trusted IT partner can help you connect smart devices safely, keep data secure, and manage your whole setup without stress.

Here’s a practical guide for small businesses getting ready to work with connected tech.

What Is IoT?

IoT – the Internet of Things – is all about physical devices (sensors, appliances, gadgets, machines) being connected to the internet.
These smart tools can collect and share data and even act on their own, all without needing someone to constantly manage them.

IoT can:

• Boost efficiency
• Automate everyday tasks
• Provide useful data to make smarter business decisions
• But it also comes with challenges, including:
• Keeping data secure
• Protecting privacy
• Tracking and managing all those connected devices

10 Steps to Manage IoT Security Risks for Small Businesses

1. Know What You’ve Got

You can’t protect what you don’t know about.

• Walk through the office and note each smart device – cameras, printers, thermostats, speakers.
• Record model names and who uses them.

Having a clear inventory means you’re ready for updates or quick responses when there’s a problem.

2. Change Default Passwords

Most devices ship with weak, shared passwords – and cybercriminals know them.

• Change every password to something strong and unique.
• Store passwords securely where your team can access them when needed.

This simple step prevents one of the most common mistakes that leave businesses exposed.

3. Segment Your Network

Not every device needs full access to your main network.

• Create separate Wi-Fi or VLAN sections for IoT devices.
• Block IoT devices from accessing sensitive servers.
• Use guest networks for visitors or untrusted devices.

Segmentation keeps your main systems safer and makes monitoring easier.

4. Keep Devices Updated

Outdated devices are easy targets.

• Check for firmware updates at least monthly.
• Automate updates where possible.
• Replace devices that no longer receive security patches.

Even older gadgets can stay secure if they’re regularly updated.

5. Monitor Traffic and Logs

Keep an eye on how devices behave.

• Use basic tools to track how often and where devices connect.
• Set alerts for unusual behaviour – for example, a badge reader suddenly reaching the internet.
• Review logs regularly for suspicious activity.

You don’t need a security team – just a consistent routine to spot problems early.

6. Set Up a Response Plan

Things go wrong sometimes. A response plan helps you stay calm and act fast.

Include:

• Who to contact if devices act strangely
• Steps to isolate or disconnect a compromised device
• Any backup tools or firmware needed

Being prepared keeps small issues from turning into big ones.

7. Limit Device Permissions

Give devices only the access they need.

• Turn off unused features and remote access.
• Block internet access for devices that don’t need it.
• Restrict device roles to the bare minimum.

Less access = less risk.

8. Watch for “Shadow” Devices

It’s easy for new devices to sneak into the office.

• Have a simple approval process for new tech.
• Ask questions like, “Does it need Wi-Fi?” or “Does it store data?”
• Block or reject devices that can’t be secured.

This helps catch risks before they reach your network.

9. Encrypt Sensitive Data

If your smart devices handle data, make sure it’s protected.

• Enable encryption in device settings.
• Use encrypted storage systems on your network.

Encryption keeps data safe even if something gets intercepted.

10. Re-evaluate Regularly

Security isn’t a one-time job.

• Do a full check every six months.
• Review passwords, network segments, and updates.
• Replace devices that no longer meet your standards.

Staying proactive keeps you ahead of threats.

Why This Matters

Smart devices make work easier – but they can be an easy target for cybercriminals if left unsecured.

Cyberattacks through IoT devices are rising quickly. Protecting your business doesn’t have to mean complicated solutions – it’s about taking simple, consistent steps like updating passwords, keeping devices patched, and knowing what’s connected.

Your Office Is Smart – Your Security Should Be Too

You don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert to protect your business.
With the right IT partner, you can connect and manage smart devices securely without the big-business complexity.

Ready to secure your office tech?

Get in touch with LP Networks today and work with a team who understands the unique challenges small businesses face.

Article used with permission from The Technology Press.