As businesses implement networks of Bluetooth beacons for indoor positioning and mobile engagement, security should be a top priority. Here are 5 best practices to keep your beacon infrastructure and data secure:
- Encrypt Beacon Transmissions
Ensure beacon signals are encrypted using keys rotated periodically. This protects the data from interception if radio signals are compromised. Use AES or similar strong encryption between beacons and apps.
- Authenticate Every Beacon
Detect spoofing attempts by requiring beacon identity authentication. All beacons must cryptographically validate themselves to the managing platform to confirm they are legitimate prior to activation. Flag any unverified beacons as rogue units.
- Limit Data Collection and Retention
Only collect the minimum beacon data needed to deliver your use case, like facility navigation or proximity-based notifications. Avoid tracking users without their informed consent. Anonymize then purge beacon data that no longer serves your purpose.
- Isolate Beacon Networks
Keep your beacon network isolated from other systems through network segmentation. This protects your infrastructure if connected devices like Wi-Fi access points are compromised. Limit connections to beacons to your beacon management software.
- Apply Security Updates Diligently
Monitor notifications from your beacon vendor about firmware updates that patch vulnerabilities. Have a plan to rapidly apply updates to all beacons across your fleet over the air. Updates ensure beacons leverage the latest protections.
Bonus: Conduct Risk Assessments
Conduct regular security assessments to identify potential risks and attack vectors unique to your beacon deployment. Tailor safeguards to mitigate these risks. Stay on top of emerging threats reported by beacon manufacturers and research firms to prepare defenses proactively.
By making security a priority in the design, deployment and management of your network, Bluetooth beacons can enable innovative new services while keeping your infrastructure, data and users safe from harm.
