What You Should Know About Internet of Things Privacy

Learn more about common Internet of Things privacy issues and how to protect your personal data today. 

The Internet of Things (IoT) encompasses all of the devices that are connected to the internet that an individual uses. From smartphones to security cameras, these connected devices communicate with each other in what seems like an entirely interlinked world.

The IoT is a revolutionary approach to technology. It’s also an essential development stage in the “informatization” era. By linking all IoT devices over an internet network, our traditional way of living has been transformed into a high-tech lifestyle.

However, though IoT devices are convenient, they can pose risks when it comes to security and privacy settings.

Consider the idea of smart homes. In a smart home, the touch of a button can control lighting, heating, security systems, and even your coffee maker at any time. These game-changing benefits bring their own share of risks, though. 

For example, with the increase in connected IoT devices, cybercriminals can now access your info from more data points than ever. 

In this article, we’ll discuss what you need to know about keeping your IoT data safe and out of the wrong hands.

We offer monitoring of your sensitive data online so you can better protect your identity. Contact us today at 866-349-0130 to learn more.

Is IoT Data Secure?

With more businesses and individuals connecting critical devices and systems, Internet of Things privacy is a bigger issue than ever before.

In a world where we already face numerous security and privacy risks, IoT devices create even more exposure. 

Most privacy issues related to the Internet of Things come from the multiple IoT devices we use every day. Whenever these devices connect, they deliver an alarming amount of sensitive information to third parties. Unfortunately, more often than not, these transfers aren’t secure or obvious to the user.

IoT Devices and Privacy Concerns

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. 

With so many people relying on the Internet of Things, so much consumer data can be easily found, collected and used without consent. Data broker sites like Whitepages, Spokeo and Arrests.org can even store your personal information, criminal records, and mugshots for anybody to see.

The two most common IoT privacy and security issues are data overload and unauthorized access.

Data Overload

The amount of data that 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 also 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.

Spying

The more IoT devices we use, the more open we are to online threats. When these smart devices are connected, an attack on any one of them opens the door to all of them, providing access to tons of personal information.

All smart devices should be considered when preventing unauthorized access, including sensors, light bulbs, video cameras, Wi-Fi routers, and more. Attackers could exploit weaknesses and password recovery processes with these smart devices to gain access to your system.

Our internet privacy experts can protect you from cyber threats in the IoT ecosystem. Call us at 866-349-0130 for more information.

Keeping Your Smart Devices Safe

Many people are eager to make life easier by using smart devices, even knowing that they collect data that could be used for harmful purposes. Luckily, there are certain measures 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; limit your app usage to only the ones you actually need.
• Use a trusted virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your connection.
• Be cautious about how much information you share when using social media platforms.
• Never leave your devices unattended when in public places or around people you don’t trust.

At InternetPrivacy.com, our data protection services include deep web scans, data removal, ongoing monitoring and detailed reporting. If you have privacy concerns, contact us today at 866-349-0130 to speak with an expert.