What is the Internet of Things?

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It would take a wide range of new digital platforms and techniques to maintain streams of data that will help grasp and materialize one massive information system. But what if we come to terms with a complex, evolving, yet adaptable technological revolution in the near future? How will it affect our day-to-day lives?

In a world where we are constantly connected to our smart devices, being the "last to know" has become rather a thing of the past. The proliferation of social media pipelines and other platforms have enabled us to connect and share information. The next big breakthrough is the revolution of a network that allows us to connect with different devices for different purposes, also known as the Internet of Things (IoT). Here's a primer on this new term.

What is the Internet of Things?

The phrase “Internet of Things” could sound like something only tech professionals or niche industries would use. In reality, we already live in a world where practically everything and everyone are all connected—within the Internet of things. Hence, it is an ambient, artificial intelligence mechanism incorporated in physical objects and is perpetually connected to the Internet so that they may identify themselves with other devices and communicate with humans.

If our smartphones can act as mini-computers and directly supply us with almost all the information we need, how much more convenient can it get if our own light switches, cars, and other smart appliances can liaise capabilities and functions with us? According to Kevin Ashton, a technology pioneer and digital innovator who came up with the term IoT, industrial-strength sensors like RFID, QR codes and other wireless technologies that are identified with the IoT will face many security challenges as it becomes more ubiquitous.

Some examples of IoT smart systems:

·         A light bulb that can be controlled by a smart device

·         A wristband that uses biosensors to monitor its user's health

·         Door locks that can be controlled remotely via the Internet

·         A refrigerator that keeps track of temperature and inventory

What are its security implications?

While the convergence of conventional devices and smart appliances does make life easier and more convenient, there are still some issues that surround this highly connected lifestyle. The most significant and obvious risks that the IoT poses involve data security and privacy. These challenges could lead to serious security breaches that could consequently expose our personal details, financial accounts, as well as professional and online activities.

A number of security loopholes can occur whenever you go online, such as the risk of falling victim to an online scam or other worse extortion schemes. As we share more information through different connected devices, the risks are multiplied.

No matter what kind or size of data we share online, the IoT has the capability to track, time, monitor, replicate, label, and save them, which could be used to reveal our information and activities. With the potential of IoT to be the driving force behind critical infrastructures, securing it from likely threats should be the top priority.

Publicado 10 agosto, 2015

Angela Gaddi

Freelance Writer

Angela writes about IT security, privacy, free speech, politics, social media, and the intersection of business and consumer tech. Has a special aptitude for privacy, cult literature, film noir.

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