Today’s IoT devices can be infected by a variety of malware at different stages of their operation. In most cases, malware (viruses, Trojans and worms) typically targets local operation and exploitation at the operating system level, depending on the complexity of the attack and its execution. The main purpose of malware is to disrupt ongoing operations and take over control of the device. IoT are very vulnerable since they often lack security software.
Gaining access to the private key (used for encryption) and/or personal information stored on an IoT device is a tidbit for an attacker because it allows the ‘root of trust’ systems to be compromised. This allows the attacker to gain control of communication processes, take over the computing power of the device, and most importantly, sensitive information.
Another class of attack on IoT devices is software-directed fault insertion into the hardware while the device is running. Although this type of attack is relatively complex, as it requires in-depth knowledge of platform-dependent hardware as well as underlying software, a remedy for such an attack is very difficult to implement. Since this class of attack looks for and exploits minor vulnerabilities in the hardware, it is useless to use purely software-based defence mechanisms.
One of the challenges that comes with design services is the cyclical nature of the services business. When the economy tightens and corporates are watching their operational expenses, the first step will be to halt any external contracts/contractors which are not deemed absolutely essential.
Whereas the earlier (staircase) model is a good approach in scaling up revenue and creating new revenue streams, the foundation of the company is still based on the service model: headcount continues to be the main driver (typically up to 60-70% of revenue). In terms of (enterprise) valuation the additional revenue streams, however, will already make a significant difference.
Design services companies typically start small (some exceptions when it concerns management buy-outs) and natural growth is a slow process as it requires hiring and training of engineers based on/driven by the revenue stream of the company. Growth of business is tied to growing the team and it is not always easy to find the engineers.