It might sound unlikely, but a North American casino experienced a significant data breach when 10 gigabytes of sensitive data was stolen through a seemingly harmless internet-connected fish tank monitor.
This wasn't an obscure gadget; it was a well-featured device designed to monitor water temperature, automate feeding, and allow remote access. The problem wasn't the functionality but that it was connected to the network without proper security.
Let's explore why this matters for your business.
This Isn't Just About Fish Tanks
You may not have an aquarium in your lobby, but your business probably uses internet-connected devices. These are often called IoT (Internet of Things) devices, and they're becoming more common across workplaces. Examples include:
- Smart TVs in reception areas.
- Security cameras.
- Smart thermostats and lighting systems.
- Temperature or humidity sensors.
- Smart appliances in the breakroom.
These devices often get installed and then ignored. They're not treated like computers or servers, and they rarely get patched or reviewed. Many business owners are unaware that they can pose a risk.
When was the last time someone updated the software on your smart lightbulb?
What Went Wrong in the Casino
In the casino's case, attackers used the fish tank monitor as an entry point. Once they gained access through that device, they moved within the network and pulled out 10 gigabytes of data without detection.
An external managed service provider (MSP) was brought in after the breach had occurred. Once the MSP reviewed the environment, the suspicious activity was obvious. The network showed clear signs of data being quietly removed over time, and the fish tank monitor was identified as the source.
Now, let's bring this closer to home.
Could This Happen to You?
Yes, it could – easily.
Every business has devices that may not be on the radar. These might include smart doorbells, security systems, connected printers, or even HVAC controllers. If they are connected to the same network as your email, customer data, financial systems, or file storage, they become potential entry points for attackers.
Many IoT devices don't support regular security updates. Once they are connected, they tend to remain online, often with weak or default credentials, creating a hidden risk.
How an MSP Would Have Prevented This
If our team had managed the casino's IT environment from the start, this breach could have been avoided. Here's what we would have done.
Kept IoT Devices Isolated
Smart devices should never be placed on the same network as core business systems. We segment these devices into their own virtual networks (VLANs). This means that even if a smart device is compromised, an attacker cannot reach your important systems or data.
Controlled Internet Access
Most IoT devices don't need full access to the internet. We restrict their communication using firewalls and access rules, allowing only what's necessary for the device to function.
Monitored Network Traffic
We monitor the entire network for unusual activity. If a device suddenly begins sending large amounts of data or connects to unfamiliar servers, it stands out immediately and is investigated.
Applied Updates Where Available
Some IoT devices allow firmware or security updates. When they do, we apply them, and for devices that don't, we build safeguards around them, limiting their access and exposure.
Attacks Rarely Come from the Obvious Places
It's common to think that cyberattacks come through emails or websites. While that does happen, many attackers look for the easiest point of access, which could be a forgotten device, a poorly configured network, or a sensor that was never patched.
These risks are easy to miss without the right oversight. That's why having an experienced IT partner matters. An MSP is trained to spot the risks that are often overlooked and put in place the right protection before anything goes wrong.
Don't Let This Happen to You
If the casino had had an MSP managing their setup from the beginning, the fish tank monitor would never have been a problem. The devices would have been isolated, internet access would have been controlled, and the unusual traffic would have been detected quickly. The breach could have been prevented.
Don't wait until something goes wrong to think about security. Attacks often come from places you least expect them to, and IoT devices are a favorite target. The best way to protect your business is to have an MSP set up your network and security correctly from the start.
Don't allow your business to become the next cautionary tale. Put the right protection in place now with an MSP who knows where to look and how to close the gaps.
