The Internet of Everything and digital privacy: what you need to know

LASER_oneXM

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Feb 4, 2016
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If you don’t already own Internet of Things (IoT) devices, you likely will soon. IoT-enabled devices are physical gadgets with built-in Internet connectivity that allow data transmission; often this happens in the background with no indication to the user that anything is happening.

The IoT is more like the Internet of Everything—statistics indicate within the next couple of years, there will be three IoT devices for every adult and child on the planet.

So, should people be concerned about consumer privacy and data security if these gadgets are always on and ready to transmit information whether we realize it or not? Let’s take a look.
Rise of the IoT brings new security concerns

The functionality and capabilities of IoT devices bring about realities that haven’t been dealt with before. Many people know they can opt out of some data collection techniques used on websites. However, if they do that with most IoT devices, the decision typically impacts how the gadgets work and may render them useless.

There’s also the fact that the increase in connected devices causes a gigantic jump in the amount of data collected. Individuals understandably wonder which device manufacturers know details about them, where the data gets stored, and how those companies use the data.

As the number of IoT devices goes up, the infiltration points for potential hackers rises, too. There was a time when cybercriminals mostly targeted only the primary corporate data stores, but there have also been instances of hackers breaking into IoT devices themselves.

It’s essential for IoT companies to take all-encompassing data protection measures, including releasing security patches for known vulnerabilities.
Both consumers and companies must prepare

There are positive and negative factors associated with the Internet of Everything.

For example, companies can collect more data, which could make them prime targets for breaches. But, they can theoretically use that data to personalize user experiences, making them more relevant.

So what can companies do to both optimize their technology and protect user data? For one, they can be proactive about on-site cybersecurity strategies and data usage disclosures. By encrypting IoT device data while it’s at rest or in transit, businesses can take a substantial step toward improving user security. It’s also worthwhile for them to consult IoT security specialists to perform site audits or check for device vulnerabilities.
 
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