Internet Of Things (IoT) Privacy Issues in 2021
Learn more about common Internet of Things privacy issues and how to protect your personal data today.
What is IoT Privacy?
IoT encompasses all the devices connected to the Internet that an individual uses at home. From simple sensors to smartphones, these appliances communicate with each other in what seems like an entirely connected world.
But it’s not all roses and sunshine in the Internet of Things universe, particularly when it comes to privacy and online security.
Here’s everything you need to know about the most common issues our connected world is facing in 2021.
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a revolutionary approach to technology enhancement. It’s also an essential development stage in the “informatization” era. By linking everything over an internet network, the IoT has transformed our traditional way of living into a high-tech lifestyle.
Consider the idea of “smart” homes. In a smart home, the touch of a button can control lighting, heating, the alarm system, and even your coffeemaker at any time.
But these game-changing benefits bring their own share of risks. With the increase in connected devices, cybercriminals can now access your info from more data points than ever.
Is the Internet of Things Secure?
In a world where we already face numerous security and privacy risks, IoT creates even more exposure.
Most privacy issues related to the Internet of Things come from the internet-connected devices we use every day. And whenever these devices connect, they deliver an amazing amount of sensitive information to third parties.
And more often than not, these transfers aren’t secure or obvious to the user.
With more businesses and individuals connecting critical devices and systems, Internet of Things privacy is a bigger issue than ever.
And while sending data isn’t always risky, collecting and analyzing info from multiple locations can often reveal sensitive information.
How Does the Development of the Internet of Things Affect Privacy?
The Internet has forever changed security standards. And due to the devices we use and the amount of personal data we share, consumers are more vulnerable than ever.
And while privacy rules state we should keep control of our data without negative consequences, the results are often just the opposite. That’s because when we rely on the Internet of Things, much of our data can be easily found, collected and used without our consent. Data broker sites like Whitepages, Spokeo, or Arrests.org can even store your personal information, criminal records, and mugshots for anybody to see.
Before you provide any device information about your personal life, it’s important to talk it over with a trusted internet privacy expert.
A privacy expert can will cover common Internet of Things privacy issues and help you protect your private info no matter what you use in your home.
What are Two Privacy Issues Regarding the Internet of Things?
The two most common privacy and security issues found in the Internet of Things include:
1. Data Overload
The amount of data IoT devices generate is staggering. Studies show that 10,000 households can create 150 million distinct data points every day. This risks not only your own information but details about your family, daily habits, changes in routine and more.
All this information opens entry points for hackers and leaves sensitive information at risk of attack.
2. Spying
The more internet-enabled devices we use, the more open we are to online threats. When these devices are connected, an attack on any one of them opens the door to all of them, providing access to all kinds of personal information.
For example, say you want to keep an eye on your devices. In that case, all the Internet-enabled devices that make communication easy should be accounted for. This includes all sensors, light bulbs, video cameras, Wi-Fi routers, and more. Attackers could exploit weaknesses and password recovery processes to gain access to your system.
In Conclusion
The Internet of Things’ full impact on our privacy and security has yet to be understood fully. With most of us eager to ease our lives and use the latest developments in technology, there is a certain measure you can take to help increase IoT safety:
- Only use reputable internet security software on your devices.
- Choose strong and unique passwords for Wi-Fi networks, accounts, and devices.
- Don’t use too many apps.
- Use a trusted VPN
- Be cautious when using social media platforms and apps.
- Never leave your devices unattended when in public places.
For more useful information about how to protect your identity online, have a look at some of our other posts:
The Truth About Social Media Privacy Laws
Privacy And Online Safety Settings
To learn more about protecting your online privacy, contact us today.
