M2M SIM Security
Just like anything else connected to a publicly accessible network, IoT devices are vulnerable to hacking or tampering. Two key strategies for keeping IoT networks secure are the use of VPNs and APNs.
APNs
APN stands for Access Point Name. An APN acts as a middle man between a particular network and the devices trying to connect with it, adding a layer of security to all of the devices on your network.
Using an APN starts with the right SIM card. Any device that wants to connect to an APN network needs to have a specially programmed SIM. There is no way for someone to connect to your IoT devices without also having access to your APN network.
Having a custom, private APN network means that you’ll only be sharing that network with your other devices, which also helps prevent network congestion.
VPNs
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network, which can be used without requiring any additional processing power from your device. VPNs encrypt your devices’ connection to the internet, so your device and its data are protected from outside access.
The most secure subset of VPNs are IPsec (Internet Protocol Security) VPNs. When IoT projects use IPsec VPNs, all data sent through the network is authenticated and encrypted. The IPsec VPN makes sure that device connected is trusted, that all data being transmitted is safe, and that all data being transferred is encrypted and secure from potential threats.