Authors : Umar Abba; Dr. Umema Ahmed; Garima Joon; Dr. Ahmad Ndanusa; Dr. Jamilu Awwalu; Abdurrahim Magaji; Abba Yahaya; Fatima Muhammad Adam

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 3 - March

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/mpjvunxd

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/wyevewzs

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26mar1853

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : The proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and their integration into larger Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) have ushered in an era of unprecedented connectivity and automation. From smart grids and industrial control systems to autonomous vehicles and healthcare monitoring, these systems are revolutionizing modern life. However, this rapid expansion has created a vast and complex attack surface, making security a paramount concern. The inherent characteristics of IoT/CPS, such as resource constraints, heterogeneity, and the tight coupling of the cyber and physical worlds, introduce unique security challenges that traditional IT security models are ill-equipped to address. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the security landscape for IoT and CPS. It begins by delineating the architectural components and identifying the unique vulnerabilities at each layer—the Perception Layer, Network Layer, and Application Layer. We then systematically categorize the primary threats, including device tampering, communication interception, data integrity attacks, and sophisticated malware like botnets. Crucially, the paper explores the tangible consequences of these cyber threats on the physical world, highlighting risks to public safety, critical infrastructure, and economic stability. Finally, we propose a holistic, multi-layered mitigation strategy framework. This framework encompasses secure device manufacturing, robust cryptographic protocols, lightweight intrusion detection systems, blockchain for data integrity, and comprehensive security policies. The paper concludes that securing the IoT/CPS ecosystem requires a collaborative, proactive, and layered approach that integrates security into the entire lifecycle of these systems.

Keywords : Internet of Things (IoT), Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS), Cybersecurity, Critical Infrastructure, Mitigation Strategies, Botnets, Data Integrity.

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