Analysis of Cyber Attacks within Critical IoT Infrastructures and Information Systems

Purpose: This research aims were to provide valuable insights into the potentials, risks, and best practices of deploying IoT in critical sectors, thus contributing to the knowledge base and fostering decision-making. The goal was to identify the possible types of cyber-attacks, take various precautions against these attacks, and to develop protection methods. Materials and Methods: To attain this goal, we conducted a series of targeted questionnaires with a sample size of 100 and 89 responded to the questionnaire. The primary data collected from the respondents was analysed with a statistical package for social science (SPSS) and the results were summarised in pie charts and frequency tables. Findings: The result showed that 80.9% of the respondents were familiar with the concept of connected devices, a fundamental principle of IoT, 54% of them believed that IoT infrastructures in their sector were secure to a high or very high extent while 46% perceived them as only somewhat secure or not secure at all. On the other hand, 83.1% of respondents believed that there was a high or very high need for stricter regulations regarding the cybersecurity of critical IoT infrastructures. Implications to Theory, Policy and Practice: The researchers proposed a framework for enhancing the security posture of critical IoT infrastructures. This framework encompasses a combination of technological measures, and policy recommendations. In addition to this, they also recommended; Investing in the development of robust and reliable internet infrastructure to support the widespread deployment of IoT devices and enable seamless connectivity across the country. Providing training programs and workshops to enhance the technical skills of professionals in IoT technologies, cybersecurity, data analytics, and information systems management and implementing small-scale pilot projects in different sectors, such as healthcare, agriculture, transportation, or energy, to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of IoT infrastructures and information systems in the Cameroonian context. Conducting research to identify the specific needs and challenges in implementing IoT infrastructures and information systems in Cameroon, and developing tailored solutions to address them. Keywords: Internet of Things, security, critical infrastructure, information systems, cyber attacks