Zachary Amos, Features Editor at ReHack Magazine delves into what IoT device cloning attacks entail and how to defend against them
The UK’s IoT landscape continues to expand rapidly, with smart homes, industrial systems and connected infrastructure becoming increasingly prevalent. However, this growth comes with challenges like device cloning attacks that can compromise entire networks. In recent years, there has been a dramatic surge in IoT-targeted malware and sophisticated attack methods, making understanding and defending against cloning more critical than ever.
What is IoT device cloning?
IoT device cloning involves an attacker physically capturing legitimate devices, extracting sensitive information — such as cryptographic keys or device identifiers — and creating duplicate devices with the same credentials. These clone devices are then strategically deployed within networks to conduct insider attacks while appearing as legitimate components.
The cloning process typically follows a predictable pattern. Attackers identify vulnerable devices with weak security implementations and physically compromise them to steal firmware and authentication credentials. Using the stolen information, cyber criminals then manufacture duplicate devices. Once deployed, these clones can manipulate data or serve as entry points for more sophisticated attacks.
This approach is particularly concerning for devices like smart home security cameras, where extracted certificates and credentials help create convincing duplicates that blend seamlessly into existing networks. This provides attackers with ongoing access to private communications and personal data.
Why device cloning is dangerous
The over 10 billion active IoT devices currently operating worldwide create an expansive attack surface. Device cloning poses substantial threats across multiple dimensions.
Data integrity is compromised when clone devices manipulate sensor readings or network communications, potentially leading to incorrect decision-making in critical systems. Privacy breaches occur when clone devices intercept personal information or provide unauthorised access to private networks.
Operational disruption represents another significant risk, as clone devices can conduct selective forwarding attacks, create a network model or even completely isolate network segments. This leaves manufacturing environments particularly vulnerable, with 54.5% of IoT attacks targeting manufacturing sectors.
The scale of potential damage extends beyond individual devices. In smart city infrastructure, cloned traffic devices could disrupt traffic management systems, whilst cloned medical IoT devices in healthcare settings could compromise patient safety through manipulated readings or unauthorised access to medical records.
5 essential defence strategies
Protecting against device cloning requires implementing multiple security controls across device life cycle management, network architecture and operational processes.
1. Unique device identities and secure authentication
Implement robust device identity management using unique, non-transferable identifiers burned into secure hardware elements. Deploy certificate-based authentication rather than simple password schemes, ensuring each device possesses cryptographic credentials that cannot be easily duplicated or extracted.
2. Firmware integrity and secure boot
Establish secure boot processes that verify firmware integrity before execution. Implement code signing and encrypted firmware updates to prevent unauthorised modifications. Regular firmware audits help identify vulnerabilities before cloning attacks can exploit them.
3. Regular updates and patch management
Maintain comprehensive update schedules for all connected devices, promptly applying security patches. Establish automated update mechanisms where possible, but maintain manual oversight for critical systems to prevent disruption.
4. Network segmentation and monitoring
Deploy network segmentation to isolate IoT devices from critical systems, limiting potential damage from compromised systems. Implement continuous monitoring to detect anomalous behaviour patterns that might indicate cloned devices, such as duplicate device identifiers or unusual communication patterns.
5. Use a quick security checklist
Create a security checklist to monitor baseline security regularly. Include the following:
- Verify that default passwords have changed
- Confirm firmware is current and digitally signed
- Implement device certificate management
- Monitor for duplicate device identifiers
- Establish incident response procedures
The UK regulatory landscape
The UK’s regulatory framework has evolved significantly to address IoT security concerns. New mandatory security requirements for connected devices became enforceable in the UK market on 29 April 2024.
The Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure (PSTI) Act mandates three fundamental security requirements. These include:
- Banning universal default and easily guessable passwords
- Requiring manufacturers to provide security update information
- Establishing vulnerability reporting mechanisms
These regulations align with international standards — particularly ETSI EN 303 645 — providing UK businesses with clear compliance pathways while strengthening the overall security posture of connected devices in the British market.
Protecting IoT ecosystems
Defending against IoT device cloning requires a multi-layered approach combining technical security measures, regulatory compliance and operational vigilance. As IoT networks continue to grow and evolve, organisations must prioritise secure device identity management, implement robust authentication strategies and maintain current security measures.
The UK’s regulatory framework provides essential baseline protections, but organisations should view these as minimum requirements rather than comprehensive solutions. Regular security assessments, employee training and incident response planning remain crucial components of an effective IoT security strategy.
Zac Amos is a freelance tech writer who specialises in IoT, cybersecurity, and automation. He is also the Features Editor at ReHack Magazine. Follow him on LinkedIn.
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