The IoT has the potential to create huge value from the real-time data collected from sensors and embedded systems in any network. But with the increased value comes risk. The ability to connect with practically any device over a network connection makes it possible for malicious users who spend every day probing for vulnerabilities and weaknesses to find many more targets. When they find a way in, they can bring entire networks down, steal data and blackmail the owners. A report by Kaspersky Labs based on a survey of hacking activity around the world estimated attacks had been staged on more than 40 percent of all industrial control system computers in the first half of 2018 alone.