The 'S' in IoT Stands for Security: Cybersecurity in Hospitality

Cybersecurity in Hospitality and the Impact of IoT on Airbnb and OTA Platforms

Introduction

When I was a teenager, I never imagined that future cyber warfare and threats could come from my microwave or smart fridge. Let's take a step back and analyse the situation:

Enhanced Guest Experience and Operational Benefits

The modern travel and hospitality landscape is experiencing a significant transformation, driven by platforms like Airbnb that leverage IoT technologies. These advancements streamline operations and enhance the guest experience, making travel and accommodation more efficient and personalised.

IoT technologies revolutionise the hospitality industry by interconnecting devices that collect and share data to automate and optimise various functions. This interconnectedness allows seamless integration of smart devices, ranging from thermostats and lighting systems to security cameras and voice-activated assistants, all working together to enhance the guest experience.

Platforms like Airbnb are at the forefront of utilising IoT to automate many aspects of property management and guest services. Smart locks, for example, allow guests to check in and out without needing a physical key, providing convenience and improving security. Guests can receive digital access codes that expire after their stay, ensuring that only authorised individuals can enter the property.

Moreover, smart thermostats and lighting systems adjust automatically based on occupancy and preferences, optimising energy consumption and creating a comfortable environment. These systems can learn from guest behaviours and adjust settings accordingly, providing a personalised experience that can make guests feel more at home.

Voice-activated assistants, like Amazon's Alexa for Hospitality, allow guests to control room settings, request services, and get information about local attractions simply by speaking. This level of convenience and customization is becoming a key differentiator in the competitive hospitality market.

Smart mirrors and entertainment systems also contribute to a more engaging and enjoyable stay. These devices can offer personalised content and recommendations based on guest preferences, turning the accommodation into an interactive and immersive environment. For instance, guests can stream their favourite shows, receive personalised greetings, and access information about their stay and the surrounding area directly through these smart devices.

For property owners and managers, IoT offers significant operational benefits. Remote monitoring and management of properties allow for real-time tracking of energy usage, security, and maintenance needs. This can lead to substantial cost savings and improved efficiency. For example, predictive maintenance enabled by IoT sensors can alert property managers to potential issues before they become major problems, reducing downtime and repair costs.

Additionally, data collected from IoT devices can provide valuable insights into guest behaviours and preferences, allowing for more informed decision-making and targeted marketing strategies. This data-driven approach can help property owners optimise their offerings and improve guest satisfaction, leading to higher occupancy rates and repeat bookings.

Security Risks and Challenges of IoT in Airbnb

The rise of IoT technology has brought numerous benefits to the hospitality industry, particularly for platforms like Airbnb. However, these smart devices also come with significant security risks. Both property owners and guests must be aware of these dangers and take appropriate measures to mitigate them.

Security Risks for Airbnb Hosts:

• Unauthorised Access: Smart locks and cameras are common IoT devices in Airbnb properties. If not properly secured, hackers can gain unauthorised access. For example, in 2017, researchers discovered a vulnerability in the LockState smart lock that allowed remote attackers to lock and unlock doors.
• Data Breaches: IoT devices often collect personal data from guests. If not properly protected, this data can be exposed in a breach. In 2019, Wyze left a database exposed, compromising the data of 2.4 million users.
• Device Hijacking: IoT devices can be hijacked and added to a botnet. The Mirai botnet attack in 2016 is a notable example where millions of IoT devices were hijacked to launch a massive DDoS attack.

Security Risks for Airbnb Guests:

• Privacy Invasion: Guests can be unknowingly monitored through insecure cameras or microphones. Numerous reports have surfaced about hidden cameras in Airbnb properties, violating guests' privacy. In one high-profile case, a family discovered a hidden camera live streaming in the living room of their rental.
• Network Exploitation: Guests connecting to unsecured Wi-Fi networks risk having their personal information intercepted. Cybercriminals can exploit network vulnerabilities to access guests' devices and steal sensitive information.

Mitigation Strategies

For Hosts:

• Change Default Passwords: Strong, unique passwords should be used to prevent unauthorised access.
• Regular Firmware Updates: Keeping IoT devices up to date ensures that known vulnerabilities are patched.
• Network Segmentation: Using separate networks for IoT devices and guests' internet access can contain potential breaches.
• Encryption: Encrypting data transmitted by IoT devices can prevent interception by malicious actors.

For Guests:

• Check for Unauthorised Devices: Inspect the property for unusual or hidden devices and report anything suspicious to Airbnb.
• Use a VPN: Connecting to a VPN can protect online activities from being intercepted when using public or insecure Wi-Fi networks.
• Disable Unnecessary Features: Disable features like microphones and cameras on personal devices when not in use.

Case Studies

Mirai Botnet Attack: In 2016, the Mirai botnet exploited insecure IoT devices to create a network of compromised devices. This botnet was used to launch one of the largest DDoS attacks in history, targeting DNS provider Dyn and disrupting major websites including Twitter, Netflix, and Reddit.

Wyze Data Breach: In 2019, Wyze, a smart home device company, inadvertently exposed a database containing the personal data of 2.4 million users. This breach highlighted the importance of securing data stored and transmitted by IoT devices.

Conclusion

While IoT technology brings significant benefits to Airbnb hosts and guests, it also introduces new security challenges. Understanding these risks and implementing robust security measures can allow both parties to enjoy the convenience of smart devices while protecting their privacy and data. Regular updates, strong passwords, network segmentation, and encryption are essential steps in mitigating these risks and ensuring a safe and secure experience for everyone involved.

About the Author

Damiano Bottali is a seasoned IT professional passionate about cybersecurity and technology and Airbnb real estate entrepreneur. Follow Damiano's journey and connect on LinkedIn: Damiano Bottali