The 5 Worst Examples of IoT Hacking and Vulnerabilities in History

The Internet of Things (IoT) connects everyday devices—from cameras and thermostats to medical equipment—to the internet. This smart connectivity makes life easier but also introduces serious risks.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the worst examples of IoT hacking and vulnerabilities ever recorded. These real incidents show how hackers exploited connected devices, the consequences, and the crucial lessons we can learn to protect our digital world.

Understanding IoT Hacking and Vulnerabilities

The Internet of Things includes billions of connected devices around the globe. Unfortunately, many of them are insecure. Let’s look at what makes these systems so easy to attack.

Common Weaknesses in IoT

1. Weak or default passwords—Devices often ship with factory credentials that users never change.

2. Lack of firmware updates—Many manufacturers stop supporting devices soon after release.

3. No encryption or weak encryption—Data between IoT devices and servers often travels unprotected.

4. Exposed network services—Open ports and unsecured APIs allow attackers to exploit entry points.

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5. Hardware limits—Low-cost devices often lack memory or processing power for robust security.

6. Supply chain flaws—Vulnerabilities in shared libraries can affect thousands of products (e.g., Ripple20).

“A vulnerable device can risk IoT security by giving cybercriminals access to connected networks.” — Fortinet

The Bigger Picture

When multiple weak devices connect to the internet, the attack surface expands. Hackers can:

• Build large botnets to launch DDoS attacks

• Steal private data or spy through connected cameras

• Disrupt essential services

• Endanger human lives (in cases involving medical IoT)

Worst Examples of IoT Hacking and Vulnerabilities

Below are the most alarming real-world examples of IoT hacking and vulnerabilities that changed how we think about connected security.

1. The Mirai Botnet Attack (2016)

In 2016, the Mirai botnet infected thousands of IoT devices—routers, cameras, and DVRs—using default passwords. The compromised devices created one of the largest DDoS attacks ever recorded, targeting Dyn DNS and bringing down major sites like Twitter, Netflix, and Reddit.

Key Facts:

• The malware scanned for devices with factory-set logins.

• It enslaved them into a botnet capable of overwhelming global networks.

• Even after arrests, Mirai variants continued spreading.

Why It Matters:

• Shows how weak passwords and open ports can cause large-scale chaos.

Lessons Learned:

• Always change default credentials.

• Regularly update device firmware.

• Isolate IoT devices from main networks.

More on Mirai: Wikipedia – Mirai Malware

2. Medical Device Hack—St. Jude Pacemaker Vulnerability (2017)

In 2017, researchers discovered that St. Jude Medical pacemakers and defibrillators had security flaws allowing remote access via radio signals. Attackers could potentially alter pacing or shock levels—posing a life-threatening risk.

Key Details:

• Wireless transmitters could be accessed remotely.

• Attackers could drain batteries or reprogram devices.

• The U.S. FDA issued recalls for software updates.

Why It Matters:

• IoT vulnerabilities can directly endanger human lives.

Lessons Learned:

• Medical and industrial IoT devices require the highest security standards.

• Manufacturers must provide long-term software support and encryption.

3. Ripple20 Supply Chain Vulnerability (2020)

The Ripple20 vulnerabilities affected a TCP/IP library by Treck Inc., embedded in millions of IoT products worldwide.

Key Details:

• 19 flaws were found in the library.

• Many vendors didn’t realize their devices used the vulnerable code.

• Devices included printers, power grids, and hospital equipment.

Why It Matters:

• Shows how a hidden third-party component can compromise entire industries.

Lessons Learned:

• Track all third-party software in IoT products.

• Maintain patch visibility throughout the supply chain.

Reference: Wikipedia – Ripple20

4. Smart Home and Camera Hacks

From baby monitors to home security cameras, countless smart home IoT devices have been hacked due to poor security.

Notable Incidents:

• Hackers spoke to children through compromised baby monitors.

• Smart bulbs were exploited to access home Wi-Fi networks.

• Smart thermostats were hijacked to control home temperatures remotely.

Why It Matters:

• Exposes how weak security can turn comfort devices into spy tools.

Lessons Learned:

• Always enable two-factor authentication.

• Change factory passwords and enable encryption.

• Use separate Wi-Fi for IoT devices.

Source: CISO MAG – 10 IoT Security Incidents

5. Misfortune Cookie Router Vulnerability (2014–2018)

This flaw affected over 12 million routers across 189 countries. Attackers could send a simple HTTP cookie to gain full administrative control of routers.

Key Facts:

• Vulnerability existed in the RomPager web server component.

• Allowed remote code execution without authentication.

• Later resurfaced in some medical and IoT devices.

Why It Matters:

• Gateways and routers form the backbone of IoT ecosystems.

• If a router is compromised, all connected devices become vulnerable.

Lessons Learned:

• Update routers regularly.

• Disable unnecessary remote access features.

• Replace outdated hardware with secure models.

Read more: Wikipedia – Misfortune Cookie

Patterns Behind IoT Hacking

Common Attack Methods

• Default credentials or no authentication

• Open network ports and insecure APIs

• Unpatched firmware vulnerabilities

• Shared or outdated libraries (supply-chain risk)

• Unencrypted communications

Impacts Observed

• Massive DDoS attacks (Mirai)

• Privacy breaches (camera hacks)

• Life-threatening incidents (medical devices)

• Global disruptions via shared vulnerabilities

Common Mistakes by Users

• Ignoring device updates

• Using the same Wi-Fi for all devices

• Buying low-quality, unsupported devices

• Leaving IoT gadgets permanently online

How to Protect Against IoT Hacking and Vulnerabilities

For Everyday Users

1. Change default passwords immediately after setup.

2. Update firmware regularly.

3. Separate networks for IoT and personal devices.

4. Disable remote access if unnecessary.

5. Turn off devices when not in use.

6. Use encryption and HTTPS connections whenever possible.

7. Purchase trusted brands that offer regular security updates.

Tip: QualySec provides excellent insights into IoT risk mitigation.

For Businesses

• Maintain a device inventory with model and firmware details.

• Use network segmentation to isolate IoT traffic.

• Conduct regular vulnerability assessments.

• Implement strong authentication and access control.

• Ensure supply chain transparency in firmware and libraries.

• Replace end-of-life devices before support ends.

Reference: World Economic Forum – IoT Cybersecurity

Why These Lessons Matter

The growing number of IoT devices worldwide means hackers have more entry points than ever. A single insecure gadget can compromise entire networks.

Real risks include:

• Privacy invasion through hacked cameras and microphones

• Financial loss from botnet participation

• Data theft from unencrypted IoT traffic

• Physical harm from tampered medical devices

Every example of IoT hacking and vulnerabilities proves that digital safety starts with awareness and responsible usage.

Summary Table

Conclusion

The history of IoT hacking and vulnerabilities highlights one simple truth: convenience should never come at the cost of security.

From the Mirai botnet to medical device hacks, every incident reveals how overlooked settings, outdated firmware, and poor encryption can cause enormous harm.

As our homes, workplaces, and cities become more connected, taking basic precautions—like updating software, using strong passwords, and segmenting networks—is not optional. It’s essential. Protecting your IoT devices today means safeguarding your privacy, data, and safety tomorrow.