In 2016, the popular TV series “Mr. Robot” aired an explosive season finale that left viewers questioning the boundaries of what was possible with regard to cyberattacks. Could seemingly inconspicuous power devices really offer potential gateways, as they had in the episode, for hackers to gain access and manipulate a network?

In just a few short years since the show aired, the answer to that question has proven a definitive yes. The advancement of interconnectivity and IoT-enabled equipment has brought a variety of new benefits to the enterprise, including the ability streamline operational efficiency by connected devices like uninterruptible power systems (UPSs) and other power backup devices. However, with this enhanced connectivity comes the possibility for risk. Even HVAC systems can be susceptible if they’re not safeguarded.