But 2022, say experts, may have marked an inflection point due to the rapid proliferation of IoT (Internet of Things) devices. For the past decade, manufacturers, software companies and consumers have been rushing to the promise of Internet of Things devices. IoT devices are a key entry point for many attacks, according to Microsoft's Digital Defense Report 2022. "While the security of IT hardware and software has strengthened in recent years, the security of Internet of Things (IoT) … has not kept pace," according to the report. What many experts are anticipating is the day enterprising criminals or hackers affiliated with a nation-state figure out an easy-to-replicate scheme using IoT devices at scale.

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