Senior living communities are rapidly adopting new technologies to enhance resident care. From health-monitoring wearables and fall-detection sensors to smart thermostats and voice-activated room controls, the Internet of Things (IoT) offers powerful benefits.
But, each new connected device also creates a new potential entry point for security threats. For communities handling sensitive protected health information (PHI), a security lapse isn’t just an inconvenience but a costly compliance violation that erodes resident and family trust.
So, how can you embrace the benefits of IoT without exposing your community to unnecessary risk?
The IoT security challenge in senior care
The security challenge with IoT devices stems from their simple, “invisible” nature. Unlike a computer, a smart sensor, lock, or light bulb has no screen or keyboard. This means it’s much harder to manage their security settings directly. They also often ship with simple, default passwords (e.g., “admin”) and can be too technical for non-savvy staff to update.
At the same time, because IoT devices run quietly in the background, they are often installed and then forgotten. This oversight creates a significant risk. A single, unsecured smart light bulb could be compromised by an attacker. If that device is improperly connected to your main network, it provides a foothold for them to move deeper, potentially accessing resident records, financial systems, or other critical infrastructure.
Three core practices for a secure IoT ecosystem
A strong IoT strategy is built on a few key pillars. Focusing on these fundamentals can significantly reduce your community’s risk profile.
1. Network segmentation
The single most important step you can take is network segmentation.
In simple terms, you should create a separate, isolated Wi-Fi network just for your IoT devices. Think of it as a guest network for your technology. This network should not be able to connect to your primary network, which runs your sensitive administrative and clinical applications (e.g., your EHR system).
The benefit here is that if, for example, an attacker compromises a smart TV on the IoT network, they are restricted to that network. They cannot use it to jump over to your main network and access resident data.
2. Strict device and update management
Default settings are a hacker’s best friend. Your security policy must include two vital processes:
- Change all default passwords: Every new device must have its default password changed to a strong, unique password before it’s connected to the network.
- Create an update plan: All software has vulnerabilities that are discovered over time. Manufacturers release patches or firmware updates to fix them. You need a reliable process to identify, test, and apply these updates as they become available.
3. Careful vendor selection
Not all IoT devices are created equal. A secure device manufacturer will be transparent about its security features. Before you buy, do your due diligence by asking the following questions:
- How does this device receive security updates?
- Is data encrypted while stored on the device and when it’s sent over the network?
- What data does it collect, and where is that data stored?
- Does the device require any unnecessary permissions or access to other parts of our network?
A cheaper device that lacks basic security features will almost always cost you more in the long run.
Common (and costly) IoT pitfalls to avoid
Steer clear of these common mistakes that can leave your senior living community vulnerable:
- Connecting IoT to the main Wi-Fi: This is the most dangerous pitfall. It mixes your most vulnerable, often unpatchable devices with your most sensitive resident and operational data. It’s like leaving a side door unlocked that leads directly to your main vault.
- The set-it-and-forget-it mindset: Failing to update or monitor devices is a critical error. When a new vulnerability is discovered for a smart lock or camera, attackers will actively search for unpatched devices. Security is an ongoing process, not a one-time setup.
- Reusing passwords: Using the same password for multiple devices or systems is a major risk. If a single, simple device is breached, an attacker now has the password for many others, potentially including more critical systems.
- Ignoring physical security: Can a stranger walk up and plug a device into an open network port in a common area or an unsecured office? An exposed, active port is an open invitation for an attacker to bypass your firewall and gain direct access to your internal network. Physical access control is a key, and often overlooked, part of cybersecurity.
Your focus should be on residents, not security headaches
Managing a growing fleet of smart devices, segmenting networks, and tracking endless software updates is a complex, full-time job. For many senior living communities, it’s a distraction from their primary mission of providing outstanding resident care.
This is precisely where Omnia Senior Solutions provides value. We specialize in managing the unique cybersecurity and compliance challenges of the senior living industry. We handle the network segmentation, 24/7 monitoring, and security management, allowing you to innovate with new technology, and remain confident that your community and residents are protected.
If you’re unsure where your IoT vulnerabilities might be, we can help. Schedule a consultation today.