Digital-First Retail
Retail Technology

The Rise of Digital-First Retail

The pandemic has forced businesses to make sudden changes in how they operate. One of the most dramatic changes for retail stores is the shift to digital-first retail policies. Here's a look at what digital-first means for resilient stores determined to survive the economic crisis.


Digital-First Business Models Help Preserve Market Relevance

Immediately after the pandemic broke out in 2020, customer foot traffic dropped by over 82 percent across the country. Suddenly there was a surge in demand for online shopping, which led to many stores issuing new customer apps. Another significant development due to the pandemic has been the growing adoption of contactless payments.

As to whether or not the rush to digital-first retail made up for lost sales, the results are mixed for different retailers. For apparel manufacturer Levi Strauss & Co., e-commerce grew by 52 percent in the third quarter of 2020. By contrast, overall sales for the same quarter declined by 27 percent year-over-year. Similarly, Office Depot saw a 20 percent spike in e-commerce for the quarter, yet an overall sales decline of 9 percent.

Retailers cannot ignore the reason why consumers have chosen online shopping: mainly for convenience. Baby boomers turned out to be the most active age group to increase online transactions since the pandemic began, according to a survey published by The Economist. Online spending increased from 25 percent to 37 percent for baby boomers, compared with Gen X spending, which jumped from 39 percent to 47 percent.


Why Digital-First Brands Are Turning to Brick & Mortar Stores

A pure digital strategy for retail doesn't work. A digital-first strategy also has its limitations. Hence digital brands are now focusing again on brick & mortar. At the same time, the combination of both digital and physical sales strategies is a compelling plan for business survival. The key is to provide online experiences in a physical store.

The connected brick & mortar store benefits from faster checkouts, greater workforce productivity and better conversion rates. It helps turn inventory faster and leads to overall stronger output. The concept of the connected store appears to be here to stay as an increasing number of stores are emphasizing this digital and physical sales blend.

Even digitally native brands that initially sought to disrupt markets online have turned back to brick & mortar to extend growth. Eyewear maker Warby Parker, for example, launched in 2010 as an online store that provided alternatives to big competitor Luxottica. Over a decade later Warby Parker owns 145 stores and builds new stores to drive further profits.

The euphoria of disrupting markets with e-commerce-only websites has worn off. Many consumers still want to visit physical stores to examine and perhaps try out new products. Brick & mortar stores also help attract new customers who may live or work in the neighborhood. Since the cost of acquiring new customers keeps rising, for some businesses it's worth having a physical storefront to interact with customers in-person.

Another option for a direct-to-consumer (DTC) retailer is to partner with a wholesaler that provides supplies to small distribution hubs. Many consumers prefer not to get packages sent directly to their residence. They want to make sure the product is delivered directly to a pick-up location to ensure it arrives at the right place on time.


Ways COVID-19 Has Changed Long-Term Consumer Behavior

COVID-19 changed several patterns in consumer behavior, from increasing online purchases to spending more time reading reviews. Here are some of the biggest changes that have occurred in consumer behavior due to the pandemic.

  1. Rise of Self-Servicing - Not only is self-servicing a viable solution to labor shortages, it can provide greater convenience for the shopper. Purchases can often be made faster in self-checkout lines. Growing strategies that blend online ordering with physical pick-up locations include BOPIS (buy online pick up in store) and BOSS (buy online and ship to store).
  2. AR & VR Stations - Augmented reality and virtual reality are effective emerging visual technologies that allow customers to try out new products in a virtual environment. Wearing a headset to see panoramic views is useful for real estate firms, as well as car dealerships and clothing stores. IKEA uses VR to promote kitchen interiors.
  3. Online Payments - Since the pandemic broke out, consumers have made major transitions toward online payments through services such as PayPal and ApplePay. Contactless payments promote social distancing and have become more widespread, particularly in supermarkets, restaurants and hotels. Digital gift cards will likely continue to proliferate in the future as a more convenient way to shop for and distribute gifts.
  4. Higher Demand for Local Stores - Consumers have become less mobile due to the pandemic but still rely on stores in their neighborhoods for daily needs. Since many small businesses shut down during the pandemic, competition has tightened. The supply chain crisis has added pressure on local shops to devise new strategic inventory methods. With less supplies available to the public for national brands, demand has increased for local alternatives.
  5. Greater Privacy Concerns - These days, cybersecurity is a major concern as it probably always will be in the future. One security breach can wipe out a business if it hasn't taken precautionary and proactive steps to protect data. It's imperative for all businesses that engage in e-commerce and store confidential data to use the most robust cybersecurity solutions available.
  6. Less Room for Errors - Fast delivery is what consumers now expect after becoming well acquainted with online ordering. Since alternatives can be found quickly in a matter of clicks, customer satisfaction has become a top priority for many brands. While the supply chain crisis has been responsible for slowdowns and shortages in product and material supplies, brands must still find ways to innovate in terms of distribution. Consumers simply have developed a low tolerance for late shipments and other errors.
  7. More Personalized Brands - Customers like to be acknowledged as supporters by the brands they choose. So there's been a growing trend toward personalization and customization in terms of brands interacting with customers. A brand can use customer relationship management (CRM) software to develop customer profiles that lead to more personalized experiences.


Conclusion

Even after the pandemic, businesses will be challenged to mix digital and physical environments in the pursuit to reach as many customers as possible. Retailers need to remember that while digital-first retailing allows for reaching a 24/7 global market, having a local physical presence helps nurture and maintain loyal customers.

Read More
Earth 4.0
Sustainability

Earth 4.0: How IoT Contributes to Sustainability

Businesses across various industries are now emphasizing sustainability for both economic and environmental protection. No longer can any company take natural resources for granted. Helping reduce CO2 emissions is now a global effort among industries and citizens. Here are ways that smart technology is contributing to the new paradigm of sustainability.


Smart Energy Strategies

Every business needs to manage its energy efficiently to keep costs under control. Part of embracing smart energy is to tap into renewable energy that doesn't emit dangerous greenhouse gases. If your company invests in solar panels, it will be contributing to reducing strain on the traditional electric grid system.

Utilities have benefited tremendously with smart infrastructure of interconnected smart devices. No longer do system vulnerabilities take months to correct. Energy producers have helped pave the way toward sophisticated networks of IoT sensors that save energy, time and money.

IoT sensors can now be placed strategically throughout a property to accurately measure real-time energy use and identify energy waste. Thanks to smart technology integrated with HVAC systems, it's possible to know your heating or cooling usage at all times of the day with clicks on an app. It further gives you the power to make temperature adjustments remotely.

The shift to earth-4 0

Check out the recording of our webinar "The Shift to Earth 4.0", where our panel of experts shared their knowledge and perspectives on the state of the environment and how Industry 4.0 will impact the earth.

Watch Now

Measuring Air Pollution

Air pollution is not a debatable theory. It's something that can be measured by smart technology. The Air Quality Index (AQI) developed by the Environmental Protection Agency is a key metric for measuring air quality. The five major pollutants it measures in the air are:

  • Ground-level ozone
  • Carbon monoxide
  • Sulfur dioxide
  • Nitrogen dioxide
  • Aerosols and airborne particles

The reason air pollution monitoring is important is because the World Health Organization has reported that both indoor and outdoor pollution are responsible for about 7 million global premature deaths. The largest source of global air pollution comes from the oil and gas industry. Smart technology can at least measure pollution so that the danger it poses becomes a growing part of regulatory discussions.


Smart Waste Reduction

Garbage produced by city populations has created landfill buildup, which threatens to leak toxic waste in the environment. The World Bank projects that solid waste buildup will grow by 70 percent by 2050. Despite stricter regulations, waste still builds up in areas beyond landfills from illegal dumping. Part of the solution is to monitor waste in as many areas as possible by placing sensors in dumpsters and municipal trash containers.
Smart waste management involves using IoT sensors to detect real-time waste levels in receptacles. This information helps waste removal services set appropriate pickup schedules for different types of waste.


Fleet Monitoring

By tracking vehicle metrics in fleet monitoring, it's possible to maximize fuel efficiency while reducing emissions. Headquarters can monitor fuel efficiency at all times and determine which vehicles provide the most overall cost efficiency. From there, the transportation firm can replace or improve underperforming vehicles.

Fleet data has helped transportation companies determine they should move away from diesel fuel in the future due to its excessive CO2 emissions. Many logistics firms are planning on adopting electric vehicles in the future as part of a goal to reach zero emissions.

The data from fleet monitoring can also help these firms optimize routing, as well as evaluate driver behavior. IoT sensors can track driving actions such as braking and accelerating, as well as vehicle speeds in relation to speed limits.


Smart Water Monitoring

Over half of the global population will live in water-stressed regions by 2050, according to MIT researchers. Due to this grim forecast, it's essential for citizens, businesses and governments to adopt aggressive methods of reducing water waste. At one time, water leaks were something water utilities accepted as regular losses, but now with smart technology, it's possible to detect leaks when they happen and fix them quickly. Sensors can be placed in pumps and valves to identify water quality as well as leaks.


Smart Agriculture

The expansion of population alone in the future will be a strain on natural resources, while climate change presents even greater challenges to the food supply. Smart sensors measure cultivation conditions in the soil, water and air, helping farmers maintain and protect crops. The UN's Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has warned that food production must increase by 50 percent by 2050 to meet global demand. By then, the population will be an estimated 10 billion people.

IoT devices will help farmers deepen their understanding of activities such as seeding, fertilization and irrigation. Smart technology can be used to alert farmers when unhealthy conditions threaten crops.


Temperature Monitoring

Improper temperature in the supply chain leads to food waste, which is a major reason why one-third of the world's food goes to waste. But when IoT sensors are installed to measure temperature, humidity, light intensity and other conditions throughout the supply chain, analysts can pinpoint where tolerance thresholds are breached. They can then fix these vulnerabilities right away to prevent food waste.


How Geofencing Protects Wildlife

Endangered wildlife can now gain better protection with the help of human friends and IoT sensors. Reindeers, for example, are vulnerable species in Norway, as the population has dwindled to under one million. About 10 percent are killed each year by wolves or colliding with trains. But by placing IoT sensors in locations where these herds live, scientists can monitor their movements. Geofencing is the use of RFID chips that can be located geographically via software and trigger digital events.


Detecting Marine Life

At one time conservationists chose to track sea creatures from the air. But this method did not fit the concept of sustainability because it was too costly. Today, IoT technology keeps improving for tracking fast-moving marine life like sharks. Scientists can track them with sensors and cameras through device tagging. IoT apps can be used by fishermen to get a clear idea of the certain types of fish that populate a waterway.


IoUT Applications

An emerging technological breakthrough for people with aquatic careers is Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT). These new tools can be used to protect the ocean and prevent environmental destruction. Here are 4 key applications of IoUT devices for measuring environmental conditions:

  1. Safe water - IoUT devices can measure pH and other metrics relating to water quality. Such a device may encompass a surface buoy, battery, antenna and sensors.
  2. Ocean debris - Several projects are underway to monitor ocean water quality. One example is an automated ship called the Mayflower Autonomous Ship (MAS). Integrated with AI technology, this solution detects pollution such as microplastics in the water.
  3. Marine life tracking - Sea creatures can be tracked using pop-up satellite tags that detach from the marine life eventually. Scientists then collect the tags on the ocean's surface.
  4. Caring for endangered species - IoUT devices can ultimately prevent the extinction of endangered marine life species. When technology experts, conservationists and local communities combine costs and preservation efforts, it can help an endangered species survive.


Future IoUT Challenges

One of the main challenges for IoUT to overcome is that radio signals weaken underwater and don't travel far. A focus on improving underwater transmission will empower scientists enormously. A move toward underwater optical communications would deliver more reliable results with wider bandwidth. The use of underwater robots will also play a role in protecting and improving the environment.


Conclusion

Sustainability is a growing concern around the world as smart technology is proving to help pave paths to more eco-friendly and economical solutions. People should venture into IoT technology and how it can make your business greener and more efficient.

Read More
Omni channel Experiences
Retail Technology

How NFTs, AR and VR Are Transforming Retail Experiences | Retail Trends

NFTs can be used to buy and sell visual art, music, products and online collectibles. The acronym stands for "non-fungible tokens", which represent a modern method for buying and selling digital products online. What are the chances of NFTs playing a role in the future of retail? They've already been adopted by major brands from Taco Bell to Gucci. Here's a look at how NFTs and other types of retail tech trends contribute to the omnichannel shopping experience.


Why Are NFTs Gaining Popularity?

The perceived value of NFTs changes over time, as well as every time an "item" changes hands. So NFTs include a feature that pays creators a percentage every time an item is sold, which helps artists who want to develop revenue streams for their digital products. These products may include songs, videos, photos, paintings, and audio.

Another reason NFTs are becoming popular is because they are part of an emerging new digital ecosystem that includes blockchain and other game-changing technologies. NFTs, for example, are stored on a blockchain. Now there are sites such as Circle and Boson Protocol aiming to embrace all forms of digital commerce. Another new digital concept is the NFT voucher, which holds funds from buyers and sellers until both parties agree on terms for triggering transactions.


How Brands are Using NFTs

Since NFTs have caught the attention of online shoppers, it's now worthwhile for brands to invest in or use NFTs to capitalize on the growing excitement surrounding them. NFTs are designed to encourage interaction with followers, which can help develop greater brand loyalty. These digital products can create closer bonds between brands and fans. In that sense, buying an NFT is mainly a digital vote for the brand.


How NFTs Create Scarcity and Fulfill a Need

Part of the intriguing mystique behind NFTs is that they create both scarcity and exclusivity. An NFT, for example, may be a series of unique items only available to a short list of followers. Artists can offer NFTs exclusively to fan club members or podcast subscribers, which creates a special connection. Another option is for artists to sell licenses for using digital or associated items.

Digital scarcity can be created in numerous ways. Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey turned his first tweet into an NFT and auctioned it for $2.9 million. Luxury art speculation is on the rise, as it's possible for artists to command high value based on the belief they will become profitable, famous, and influential. Another example is when a creator establishes partnerships to create exclusive art for different companies.

NFTs that attract the most demand fulfill a need that hasn't been previously met online, such as offering a picture that captures the spirit of current news or issues. There's a need among social media users to find digital art they can share with their communities.


How NFTs Impact the Resale Market

NFTs are not limited to representing digital experiences, as they can associate with physical assets, such as unique attire in the fashion world. In the real world, the resale market attracts luxury buyers looking for good deals. These people support all forms of art and fashion. They seek to maximize their investments by bargain hunting for used items. The same concept is being applied digitally to NFTs.

Since an NFT associates with a digital timestamp, it can be used in various ways as proof of purchase for a physical item. Not only can it be used as a ticket to a show, but it can also be used as a membership card for exclusive events. In that sense, it's possible to buy then resell a ticket to a big event for a profit without ever leaving home. An NFT's creator can collect money every time the digital item is resold, similar to a royalty payment.

There's a good chance for NFTs to expand more in the resale market, which can create more excitement for people who participate. Buying and selling digital products can become a seamless online activity that generates new revenues streams for individuals and businesses. At the heart of this innovation is blockchain technology, which has already ushered in methods for creating countless new markets.


Are NFTs the Future of Retail?

NFTs have been around since 2014, but only started to gain wide attention in the early 2020s. By the third quarter of 2021, the trading of NFTs surpassed $10 billion. Clearly, there is growing market demand to buy and sell digital assets, which can be anything imaginable in the digital realm--- from games to cartoons, news clippings, poems and films.

Each NFT is unique in some way, which is part of how it gains value among a following. Since the playing field is wide open for any art form to be monetized as an NFT, it's likely that interest will grow for creative ways to build digital commerce.

The awareness about NFTs is rising. A recent Morning Consult report survey found 15 percent of males claimed to collect NFTs while only 4 percent of females said they were collectors. These female collectors often invest in high fashion NFTs. Meanwhile, crypto enthusiasts are helping spread the word about the digital marketplace. In the past, niche markets have supported the evolution of NFTs, which are expected to generate $240 billion per year by 2030.

In 2022 McKinsey & Company issued its State of Fashion report that predicted NFTs would likely enter the retail trends within the year. At the same time, retailers have major sustainability goals this decade while the physical nature of how blockchain technology uses excessive energy has become a controversial issue. That means brands will need to choose NFTs carefully to stay consistent with their sustainability goals.


Examples of AR/VR Used in Retail

Augmented reality and virtual reality have already transformed the way consumers interact with products. Nike has been a leading brand at providing AR/VR experiences in its stores, allowing customers to scan products for deeper information. Another AR/VR retail example is how IKEA's app allows customers to use their smartphone cameras to visualize how furniture might appear in their living rooms.

Apple has helped pave the way toward modern retail with its physical stores, which use AR to showcase iMacs, iPads, iPhones and other products. Meanwhile, automakers like BMW have capitalized on VR by providing dealerships with 3D goggles for panoramic viewing. Customers can view showrooms of various car models without the physical vehicles being onsite.

A "metaverse" marketplace has become the harvesting grounds for NFTs. Certain industries, such as 17 percent of fashion brands, have already experimented with the medium. Addidas recently entered the digital art arena with a collection of 30,000 NFTs called Into the Metaverse. As a form of virtual reality, the metaverse is quickly becoming populated with 3D experiences.


Omnichannel Retail for Seamless Shopping Experiences

Due to all the different forms of digital media, there's a need for retail businesses to consolidate this diversity within one cohesive infrastructure. It's further necessary to create seamless digital experiences for retail customers. Timberland has been an innovative clothing brand in pioneering seamless omnichannel shopping experiences. Customers get to use tablets in Timberland stores to create shopping wish lists they can send to their email.

The key to a seamless omnichannel retail experience for customers is to offer product information through different forms of media. All the customer needs is a mobile device to participate in various omnichannel experiences.


Conclusion

Clear advantages exist when aiming for omnichannel retail experiences that include NFTs and other new digital technology. Consumers are gaining increasing awareness about engagement with digital products and services. Meanwhile, businesses, artists and resellers of various offerings enjoy new ways to develop revenue streams, such as through NFTs. As new retail trends emerge online, opportunities are growing to earn money from home from crafting a collection of digital solutions.

Read More
smart tech homes with wellness technology
Information Technology

How to Use Smart Tech Solutions to Improve Sleep and Wellness | Wellness Technology

Wellness technology is an emerging field designed to help people improve both mental and physical health. It's gaining attention across various industries because employers have learned that a healthy workforce, especially for a work-at-home staff, is key to success. Here are ways that wellness technology can be integrated into smart homes to enhance the quality of home and business life.


Rise of Wellness Devices

Research firm McKinsey & Company reported recently that the global wellness industry is now worth over $1.5 trillion. The industry was escalating at a rapid pace even before the pandemic made the public more conscious of health issues. Now people are using wellness technology such as fitness trackers, Wi-Fi connected air purifiers and exercise bikes to monitor their health at home, where many people have worked during the pandemic.

Indoor sensors can measure air quality while smart bulbs provide comfortable lighting. Various health-monitoring devices have been introduced by the medical industry in recent years to help people track heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperatures. Other sensors can detect contaminants in the environment and alert homeowners of their presence through an app.

Some of the other devices that help promote a clean and healthy environment include water purifiers, comfort-enhancing sleep devices and smart lighting systems that align lighting with the body's natural patterns. Another stunning development is infrared sensors can be used to track fevers within a household as well as body temperatures.

Since falls have been a leading cause of death among seniors, scientists have developed motion sensors for detecting falls. These sensors can send alerts to medical professionals when a victim is unable to call for help. The data from tracking devices is useful because it can be combined with treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). A CBT specialist typically works with patients on a personal level to help them overcome mental or behavioral problems.


The Arrival of Medical Robots

Artificial intelligence is one of the keys to connecting wellness with digital monitoring. AI continues to develop steadily in the form of machine learning software and physical robots. While human-like robots may still be decades away, today's robots can act as medical assistants by answering patient questions and sending them alerts about their health.

Robots equipped with voice and facial recognition software have the ability to communicate with specific individuals about their fitness. These are important features for protecting patient privacy. Another advantage to IoT-connected robots is they can draw from a wealth of medical resources to provide medical advice. They are also capable of ordering medicine and interacting with medical professionals.


The Tech Revolution in Sleep Health

Sleep loss and related disorders are part of the discussion on wellness in the workplace. At one time, getting minimal sleep was associated with success if you spent all night working on projects to boost your career. But now there's a growing understanding that overworking and lack of sleep are barriers to wellness. So employers are increasingly encouraging employees to get an appropriate amount of sleep. People are more energetic and motivated when they've had sufficient rest.

One of the reasons employers have become more aware of sleep disorders is because research has shown that sleep loss cuts into workplace productivity and company revenue. Scientists have also learned that sleep loss is linked to anxiety and depression, as well as more serious health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease.

Costs of Sleep Loss - Employers are particularly concerned with the fact that sleep loss impacts cognitive abilities that are necessary to perform focused work. In the United States alone, sleep loss adds up to a loss of 10 million working hours per year. The cost to businesses is about $400 billion a year nationally. This deficiency is large enough to get the attention of firms that consult large organizations, which has helped spread the word about solutions such as sleep technology.

Solutions to Sleep Loss - There are ways to correct sleep loss naturally, but technology can help, especially when individuals have trouble getting to sleep on their own. Some of the natural methods include sticking with a regular waking and sleeping schedule, exercising in the morning, and staying away from or minimizing food and drinks that reduce energy. It's also helpful to eliminate your exposure to blue light from screens for an hour before going to sleep.

As far as wellness technology for countering sleep loss, one of the key solutions includes wearables that monitor sleep and deliver data to a physician. Wearables are particularly helpful to seniors and contribute to large-scale studies on how sleep relates to health including cardiovascular issues. Scientists are just beginning to draw parallels between sleep patterns and health issues and need to conduct more repeated studies before drawing definite conclusions.


How Businesses Benefit from Sleep-Tech Ecosystems

McKinsey & Company has found from its research that a sleep-tech ecosystem benefits multiple entities at once. It helps employers who want to invest in the health and well-being of their employees. Digital health information can further be helpful to insurance companies that offer interventions for their clients when well-being is threatened.

The sleep-tech industry can compile extensive data on which wearable devices are most effective in the cause of better sleep. Software developers can work to improve clinical experiences and health monitoring with user-friendly apps. In the field of wellness, there's a growing need to explore solutions such as CBT apps and meditation apps more deeply.

Now that wellness is becoming a mainstream topic in business and society, more and more devices are being developed to promote wellness. These devices can be integrated with smart home infrastructure and have proven to be viable solutions for creating safer and more comfortable conditions in the home. Consider investing in wellness technology that connects with your smartphone to help gauge and enhance a healthy living space.

high tech homes

Hear strategies from Smart Home tech experts for choosing and implementing smart home technology. Watch the replay of our High Tech Homes webinar to explore new possibilities for home cybersecurity and automation.

Watch Now

New Opportunities for Wellness-Related Industries

The focus on wellness opens up further opportunities for pharmaceutical and med-tech companies to work on producing better wellness medications and treatments. Wearables can produce a wealth of data about a patient that can become powerful information to pharma developers. But patients must be aware of how the data is used, as privacy concerns are growing just as fast as digital technology.


Balancing Wearables with Therapy

Sleep trackers are useful in documenting sleep patterns, but interventions to sleep disorders often require a therapist and medical-grade diagnostics. Patients also prefer personalized relationships with physicians, so going all-digital without human contact is probably not appropriate for the entire population. An ideal model for wellness therapy is a hybrid solution that balances input from wearables and therapists.


Conclusion

Now that wellness is becoming a mainstream topic in business and society, more and more devices are being developed to promote wellness. These devices can be integrated with smart home infrastructure and have proven to be viable solutions for creating safer and more comfortable conditions in the home. Consider investing in wellness technology that connects with your smartphone to help gauge and enhance a healthy living space.

Read More
smart homes data ownership
Data Management

What Is Smart Data Ownership?

The smart revolution has extended beyond phones to cars, eHealth devices, wearable trackers, home devices, and even cities. IoT has taken over. For those yet unfamiliar, IoT is basically sensors able to capture data which can be analyzed and put to use by individuals or businesses for a variety of purposes, including the design of new policy.

Data can be static, but it can also provide vital information about individual and business operations. Here's the thing: who owns that data? Legal definitions require data ownership be defined by whoever has collected it into a database. That's Somjit Arnrit of AM Technologies' perspective.

Still, you've got to define this situation carefully. Privacy can't be defined without ownership being established in advance. This gets complicated when individual and commercial data crossover; then there's the nebulous issue of what information is generated through equipment used under lease. Contracts tend to define this. We're looking at a complex issue here, so let's dive in:


Define Information: More Than One Type of Data

There's personal data, and you may have liability as an organization in the United States if that data becomes available to hackers. It's called "PI", or "Personal Information", here's a guide to penalties if you're hacked. Definitely, a business needs to differentiate between what can be defined as proprietary data, and that which is PI.

Internationally, in 2018 the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) of the EU was passed, and businesses operating beyond national borders need to be aware. Portability and deletion rights are outlined under the 2018 GDPR agreement. However, anonymous data, aggregation, and de-identification make breach and data protection laws harder to pin down. Sometimes you've got info from individuals who simply can't be traced. Still, good tech people can collaterally figure out who is who in the data zoo, so there's controversy.


Contextualization of Data and Data Value

What's necessary is assigning data value and contextualizing associated info. If you're running an IoT network, there may be more than one stakeholder. An industrial plant will have third-party providers on-site, end-users, manufacturers, and public visits; all of which generate data.

Because all data has some level of value, data sharing and exchange options can be mutually beneficial. Trade a little data for something--you've likely already experienced this in your personal life. Online coupons exist if you just give up a little personal data voluntarily.

Well, in a commercial sense, this gets more complex. While before, companies who weren't savvy wouldn't even use all that data, legal restrictions as regards breaches and rulings by the GDPR have changed the game.

Now companies have to think about these things for compliance regulations. So where is this going? Varying tech professionals are trying to determine a way of assigning baseline value to data. As that happens, new protocols will be necessary for optimal operations and legal compliance.


Where IoT and Data Ownership Have Conflict

Accessing data is often going to require ownership permissions be established. Say you've got a car that's IoT enabled. It generates substantial data. There's probably some telemetry at play here: data being transmitted to the manufacturer for their developmental purposes.

There will be data generated by a smart car through IoT that the user doesn't actually have access to, but the manufacturer does. Third-party hardware is likely going to have difficulty interfacing with built-in telemetry, changing data the manufacturer collects.

There's definitely a disconnect between individual use and telematics data transmission. If you're running a fleet of vehicles as a business, this gets even more complex. If you've got multiple brands sending telemetry to manufacturers, that makes things even more complicated for your network. Also, that data can be useful for you as well as the manufacturer. So you can see why those known as Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) tend to be at cross-purposes with those using manufactured equipment.

Now OEMs prefer telemetric information transfer be enclosed within their own system; that's convenient for them. But if you own the vehicle, this may not be ideal for your company. However, OEMs have an argument regarding uniqueness, which telematics facilitate through data differentiating brands. What's the real difference between your Motorola Z smartphone and the new Google Phone? Honestly, services are the big difference, hardware for such devices is extremely similar. It's the same with many vehicles and other devices that are IoT-enabled.


The MGD Angle

Machine-Generated Data, or MGD, defines the majority of IoT-generated data. Whoever owns the device that makes information essentially owns that information. But the question of ownership is nebulous when you consider things like copyrights, trademarks, and proprietary engineering. Data generation may legally be defined as part of a company's unique product development.

If you really want to see things get complicated, introduce a lease. To put it in perspective if you own a device: data is owned by the titleholder of the device in question. Think of data title as paperwork demonstrating property ownership. If MGD contains metadata, think of that like water or mineral rights to a property.

Some properties don't grant owners such rights. Some do. Similarly, MGD may or may not include that information, depending on the device, its manufacturer, and their legal team. Put it this way: it's possible for one individual or group to own data, and for it to be controlled by someone else.

Data possession isn't legal license in the same way a "title" would be. Possession may play a part of overall data control, just as a tenant controls how their unit is decorated. But the landlord owns the unit. Control follows data being copied and spread, but ownership may require some sort of legal definition.


Legal Realities and What They Mean

PI may have a legal definition, but raw data is not protected by American law. That said, rights to ownership of that data through title have a certain similarity to copyright law.

Those who hold title can create derivative works, they can generate copies, and they can distribute the information to which they hold title. Think of information in a database like what's inside a book. While the author owns words and pictures inside, a publishing company may have distribution rights, and the ability to collect a certain amount of money from the sale of a given book.

An author gives publishers publication authorization and distribution rights. But the way a reader interacts with that information is beyond the author's control. If you have data title privileges, then you have data ownership rights. Should someone copy that data and use it somewhere else, those ownership rights don't follow their use of it.


Managing IoT Data Properly

Device title does not always represent data title. Owning data, or data possession also isn't data title. OEM devices will likely produce telemetry that OEMs have some control over, and leasing arrangements make everything even more complex. Read the fine print, and work with tech professionals who understand this burgeoning legal field for best access and usage outcomes regarding data ownership.

Read More
3G Sunset
Networking

How to Prepare for the 3G Sunset in 2022

Have you heard about the 3G Sunset and how it will impact online activities in 2022? Telecom companies that provide wireless connectivity are shutting down 3G networks throughout 2022 so they can focus tower space on 4G and 5G networks. Businesses that still use 3G devices need to prepare for this major change or face disruption through the potential loss of internet connectivity.


Telecoms Shutting Down Networks in 2022

Various industries still rely on 3G equipment for their operations. Logistics firms, first responders and oil companies still use equipment that connects with 3G networks. But once all the 3G networks are shut down, devices designed for 3G will no longer connect with the internet. Here are sunset dates for some of the top internet providers:

     ✓ T-Mobile - March 31, 2022

     ✓ AT&T - February 2022

     ✓ Verizon - December 31, 2022

     ✓ Sprint's 3G - January 1, 2022

     ✓ Sprint's LTE - June 30, 2022

     ✓ Other global telecom firms - Boost, Cricket and Straight Talk have also announced shutdowns. More 2G networks will also shut down in 2022.


Challenging Transition to 4G and 5G

Despite the shutdown of 2G and 3G networks, tough challenges face telecom and tech developers of 4G and 5G products and services. Supply chain delays have created a domino effect, while chip shortages have also contributed to a slowdown in a wide range of developments. So it may be an awkward transition for some people, especially those who know little about 2G thru 5G and don't keep up with the latest tech news.

Meanwhile, old iPhones and Androids simply won't connect to the internet once the 2G and 3G networks are completely shut down. People who have yet to invest in a modern smartphone might finally get one now that old cellphones will no longer be useful for mobile connectivity. Old 3G phones won't even be able to call 911, but they may still have certain functions over a Wi-Fi connection.

The shift to 4G and 5G may come as culture shock to some people who are happy with their old flip phones. Minimalists who don't like to buy the latest trendy gadget every few years will be annoyed they are forced to conform to a new paradigm. They won't even have the benefit of reselling their old phones as used items. It's possible that remote workforces will face disruption if the full staff doesn't accept the new 4G and 5G standards.

Some environmentalists may complain that this move is causing perfectly good working gadgets to go to waste. At the same time, environmental laws are getting stricter on how to dispose of e-waste. There's also a growing trend toward recycling old electronic gadgets.

The transition to 4G and 5G will most likely disrupt consumers who haven't heard much about it and find out they need to purchase a new mobile device this year.

Despite the shutdown of 2G and 3G networks, tough challenges face telecom and tech developers of 4G and 5G products and services. Supply chain delays have created a domino effect, while chip shortages have also contributed to a slowdown in a wide range of developments. So it may be an awkward transition for some people, especially those who know little about 2G thru 5G and don't keep up with the latest tech news.

Meanwhile, old iPhones and Androids simply won't connect to the internet once the 2G and 3G networks are completely shut down. People who have yet to invest in a modern smartphone might finally get one now that old cellphones will no longer be useful for mobile connectivity. Old 3G phones won't even be able to call 911, but they may still have certain functions over a Wi-Fi connection.

The shift to 4G and 5G may come as culture shock to some people who are happy with their old flip phones. Minimalists who don't like to buy the latest trendy gadget every few years will be annoyed they are forced to conform to a new paradigm. They won't even have the benefit of reselling their old phones as used items. It's possible that remote workforces will face disruption if the full staff doesn't accept the new 4G and 5G standards.

Some environmentalists may complain that this move is causing perfectly good working gadgets to go to waste. At the same time, environmental laws are getting stricter on how to dispose of e-waste. There's also a growing trend toward recycling old electronic gadgets.

The transition to 4G and 5G will most likely disrupt consumers who haven't heard much about it and find out they need to purchase a new mobile device this year.


Industries Affected By Telecom Changes

     ✓ Transportation - Vehicle telemetry is an emerging technology that has allowed trucking companies to monitor various metrics that reflect the vehicle and the driver. Companies that have deployed digital transformation in recent years likely already have 4G and 5G compatible technology.

     ✓ Energy - Several EV charging stations are now over a decade old and were originally set up to connect with 3G systems. Such charging stations must be upgraded to still function properly.

     ✓ Utilities - Smart meters are at the heart of Industry 4.0 for power companies, but those designed for 3G communication must be upgraded. Consumers who check their energy usage with old cell phones will need to upgrade to smartphones.

     ✓ Healthcare - The use of wearables for patient monitoring has helped revolutionize the healthcare industry, but older wearables are in jeopardy of ceasing to function with the shutdown of 2G and 3G. It's imperative for doctors to alert their patients who need new wearables.

     ✓ Consumer - Security alarms built years ago that communicate with law enforcement or other monitoring sources online may need to be replaced. Alarm systems that connect on 3G networks will no longer work after 3G connectivity is phased out.


Industries Affected By Telecom Changes

Most people actually already own phones designed for 4G and 5G networks, so they won't be affected at all by the change. For businesses still using 3G phones and other old devices, the challenge will be to set aside a budget for replacement devices. An obvious option for businesses to avoid paying for new technology is to enforce a "bring your own device" (BYOD) policy with the understanding the device must be compatible with 4G or 5G.

While private networks are an option, most companies need to create an action plan to either replace, upgrade or retrofit devices that rely on older cellular technologies. Businesses need a backup plan to avoid downtime if they are unable to meet the sunset dates with replacement devices. Here are action items to consider when preparing for network shutdowns:

     ✓ Identify cellular technology used by devices (2G, 3G, 4G, LTE, etc.) - Make note of which older devices can be upgraded.

     ✓ Identify the cellular carrier providing connectivity for devices - Be aware of what the carrier's plans are with 4G and beyond.

     ✓ Find out when the carrier will shut down 3G service - Remember that by the end of 2022 there will be no more 3G connectivity.

     ✓ Identify and prioritize which devices to replace - Consider replacing these items with the same brands to maintain consistency and familiarity.

Beyond finding capital in their budget to cover the expense of upgrades, companies must also be able to find the necessary parts for the equipment. Ongoing supply chain challenges include labor shortages, supply shortages and shipment delays for items such as computer chips. Due to this logistics crisis, it may be difficult to find affordable or ideal phone brands and models for your business right away.

Some carriers are offering free and low-cost smartphones for 3G users who need to upgrade. Certain older phones can be upgraded for 4G and 5G with a software update and a new SIM card.


Conclusion

The world of 3G is becoming a ghost town in the IT world. Much of it will no longer be supported by telecom or tech companies. The one thing you can predict this century with technology is constant change.

Read More
smart home
Information Technology

Smart Home Tech: Smart Solutions for Your Smart Home

A lot of homes are now getting smarter. Today, electronic gadgets and appliances can transmit data over wireless connections. Thanks to IoT technology, you are able to access data and control smart electronic devices in your home remotely. Here are important points to know about maximizing smart tech solutions for your home.


1. Start with a Quality Network Router

The router you choose for your wireless network in your smart home makes a difference in how reliable your network functions. Using a new router will more likely give you better performance than a router that’s over five years old. Usually the newer the router, the faster the Wi-Fi speed. Be aware that wireless signals can be weakened by walls and large objects.


2. Grow from a Small Network

Start with just a router and a shortlist of smart devices that connect with it. Test the network out to see how fast and reliable your connection is. Think about other devices that can improve your quality of life as you map out your smart home for the future.

You can develop a smart infrastructure over time using a smart Wi-Fi router as the hub. It will allow for beamforming, in which a beam pointed at a device ensures a solid internet connection with it. You can also choose a smart hub that connects with a conventional router.

high tech homes

Hear strategies from Smart Home tech experts for choosing and implementing smart home technology. Watch the replay of our High Tech Homes webinar to explore new possibilities for home cybersecurity and automation.

Watch Now

3. Simplify with Voice-Activated Devices

One of the easiest ways to interact with smart home tech is to use voice-activated devices and apps. Several functions can be controlled by a smart speaker. It’s a much quicker process to program certain vocal statements as commands that communicate with various devices. Some of the popular choices for smart speakers include Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple’s Siri. It’s a good idea to make sure smart devices are compatible with at least two different smart speaker platforms.


4. Cut Costs with Geofencing

Geofencing simply refers to capability of your smart home turning smart devices on or off when you leave your home. You can customize settings for different devices, such as thermometers so that automation controls desired room temperature. Ultimately, geofencing allows you to ensure you are not wasting energy and money.


5. Update Your Home’s Wiring

Old wiring can hold your home back from developing a smart infrastructure. Many old homes lack a ground or neutral wire in switches, which makes them incompatible with smart devices. If you suspect your home’s wiring is outdated, talk with an electrician about bringing it up to code and compatible with hardwired smart devices.


6. Consider IFTTT Services

IFTTT stands for “If This Then That.” It’s a private commercial service that connects various smart home devices together. By using this service, you won’t have to worry about compatibility issues when you purchase new smart devices. “This” in the name represents a trigger to an event, while “That” reflects the action. Ultimately, IFTTT software is capable of automating web-application tasks for smart homes.


7. Learn About Analytics

Anytime you purchase a smart device for your home you should be aware of how it uses data. Where is the data transmitted and what does it mean? It’s important that you’re aware of any data that’s sent to manufacturers, utilities, marketers or other third parties.


8. Take Security Seriously

It’s possible for cybercriminals to tap into your network, which is why it’s best to build robust security layers. While it’s ideal to avoid passwords completely, if you do use them, make sure they are not simple or duplicated from passwords in other accounts. Passwords should be unique and hard to remember. You should also give unique names to devices and apps.


9. Add Smart Outdoor Devices

Even outdoor devices can be integrated with smart technology. Lawn sprinklers can be controlled remotely from your smartphone. Other outdoor items to consider for your smart home include a smart video doorbell and smart bulbs. Smart outdoor devices make your home more secure and luxurious. Smart lighting is the easiest to deploy if you’re not sure where to get started with developing your smart home.


10. Use Routines to Consolidate Tasks

You can control several smart devices at once through what Alexa and Google Assistant call “routines” and Siri calls “automations.” A single voice-activated phrase such as “activate all smart devices” can control all devices at once according to how each one is programmed.


11. Know Your Bandwidth Needs

It’s helpful to know how much bandwidth is required to handle multiple smart devices. About every dozen devices require about 5Mbps of bandwidth. If your home has smart video cameras, it will require at least 10Mbps of bandwidth. It’s also helpful that your router can accommodate twice the bandwidth you actually use. You will need plenty more than 10Mbps of bandwidth if you purchase high-quality smart devices.


12. Don’t Be Fooled by Tech Hype

With the wave of smart technology comes several devices that don’t live up to the perceptions created by the manufacturer’s marketing. Be careful with unknown brands that claim to offer revolutionary smart technology. Many of them are simply copies of other systems and don’t offer new features. It’s best to stick with reputable manufacturers and retailers when investing in smart home solutions.


13. Keep Smart Devices Updated

Make sure you regularly update the firmware on all your smart devices, which is usually done automatically. You should still periodically check to see that you are running the latest software versions for all your smart devices. Keeping software up to date is a security measure, as old software can become vulnerable and easier to penetrate for experienced hackers.


Conclusion

Smart homes are becoming more widespread and are no longer just a novelty for early adopters. Homeowners are becoming increasingly aware of how smart home tech solutions can cut energy bills, water bills and make life more comfortable.

If you’d like to learn more about the best practices for transitioning to a smart home and more modern living, watch the recording of our “High Tech Homes: Smart Homes and Home Automation” webinar.



Read More
Smart Home Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity

10 Ways to Improve Your Smart Home Security

Some of the major advantages to adopting smart technology for your home are that it can make your home safer and you can monitor it while you’re away. Each year, there are amazing new smart products being brought to the market. Here’s a look at smart technology that can add security, comfort, and savings to your smart home.


How Smart Technology Is Developing

Today, homes and buildings all over the world contain smart devices with sensors that communicate with data collection systems. Manufacturers of smart technology are increasingly encouraging homeowners to invest in multiple smart solutions that form a smart ecosystem. Large producers of smart devices such as Samsung, GE, and Trane are working on campaigns to promote safety, security and interoperability of smart equipment.

Homeowners can save money by monitoring usage of energy and water in real-time and conserving consumption. By knowing your consumption of kilowatt-hours in real-time, you can plan your energy budget more accurately and decisively.


Security Issues Exist with Smart Technology

The more your home is connected to the internet, the more you need to be concerned about using the most robust cybersecurity available. The technology is constantly improving, but so are the skills of cybercriminals. It’s possible for a hacker to hack into your home network if you don’t use sufficient cybersecurity. The Home Connectivity Alliance is currently working to improve security for connected smart home environments.

Congress members are looking into data privacy and security matters, although existing laws haven’t slowed down the most advanced cybercriminals. Manufacturers have been sued over privacy breaches relating to their data transmission devices.

So, it’s important to remember that anyone using internet-based technology can get hacked even with the strongest protection. It’s still important to make cybersecurity a priority so that you’re not making hacking easier for cybercriminals.

high tech homes

Hear strategies from Smart Home tech experts for choosing and implementing smart home technology. Watch the replay of our High Tech Homes webinar to explore new possibilities for home cybersecurity and automation.

Watch Now

Best Ways to Improve Smart Home Security

  1. Protect your privacy with a VPN – A virtual private network on your router adds a layer of privacy to your home connectivity. A reputable VPN will protect your connection with encryption. Using a VPN on your router will keep your smart TV viewing and other activity private.
  2. Use strong passwords for Wi-Fi network access – Weak or default passwords are equivalent to leaving the key in your ignition with the car door unlocked. Hackers prey upon weak easy-to-crack passwords, which is why it’s imperative to use the most complex and unconventional passwords as possible. Strong passwords don’t have easy-to-read words or number patterns in them, nor are they duplicated for multiple accounts.
  3. Keep IoT devices separate from computers – It’s best to isolate IoT devices from your network that provides access to data for desktops and mobile devices. You’ll be able to protect sensitive data transmitted by sensors. One way to separate the networks is to create a secondary guest network on your router and dedicate it to your smart devices.
  4. Customize privacy settings on devices – Since manufacturer defaults on privacy settings don’t necessarily work for everyone, it’s important to customize privacy settings for each smart device. Disable features you don’t need, such as cameras and microphones.
  5. Investigate smart products before buying – Reading product reviews of smart devices before a purchase can go a long way in choosing the right technology. Find out about homeowners in your situation and which smart products have made their lives better. It helps to research the company’s background and learn if it has had any major breaches. You should also read the manufacturer’s privacy policy before buying the item to ensure you understand the level of privacy the firm provides. It’s further helpful to learn which smart devices are compatible with each other.
  6. Learn what type of data is transmitted – Smart devices are capable of constantly sending information back to the manufacturer, so it’s important to know before you buy a device how the data is used by the manufacturer. Keep in mind this concern applies to all types of smart appliances, from coffee makers to televisions, etc. Be aware that some IoT devices allow you to opt out of data collection or delete collected data.
  7. Update your security software – It’s essential to update your security software on a regular basis so that your system can overcome vulnerabilities. Turning on automatic software updates will help keep your software current.
  8. Use encryption on your router – Since your router is the hub of all your smart home devices, it’s important that it’s well protected with an encryption method such as WPA2. Encryption is one of the strongest defenses against network spies.
  9. Adopt a multi-layered security strategy – While no system is bulletproof against cybercriminals, systems that are least likely to be penetrated encompass multiple layers of security. Antivirus software is one layer and alone doesn’t offer strong protection. But you can strengthen your smart home infrastructure by adding several other security layers, such as multi-factor authentication and 24/7 data monitoring.
  10. Monitor and secure your network – Make sure to secure your home wifi connection. Keep track of the number of devices connected to your home network. Don’t give access to some visitors you don’t know. The more people who have access to your network, the higher the risk of your data being compromised.


Conclusion

These days, you can improve the quality of your home tremendously simply by investing in smart technology. It helps to work with experienced experts who can install and maintain the right smart home security solutions for you.


Read More
Sentient Homes
Information Technology

The Rise of Sentient Homes and What That Looks Like

Tomorrow's engineers are presently running around in the world's nurseries. What do these youngsters think of the world? What are they interested in? What kinds of things will they be passionate enough about to devote their lives to? Well, a lot of things, but one in particular worth thinking about is the "sentient home".

Today's youth imagine that, in the next thirty years, homes will be more than smart; they'll be "sentient"; they'll seem like they have their personalities and all that goes with that. Will we ever get there?


Trends Toward Sentient Homes

Technologically speaking, a breakthrough must be imagined before it can come to pass.

Today, we have increasingly optimal smart homes, which are prompting children to imagine a tomorrow where they're as commonplace as electricity. Some aspects of their imaginations will be realized eventually.

Here, we'll briefly explore a few smart home trends headed toward sentience to give you an idea of what a true "sentient home" might look like. Such trends include:

  • More Efficient Connectivity
  • An Increase in "Home" Robots and Their Effectiveness
  • An Increase in Wireless Controls Toward Greater "Sentience"
  • More Intuitive Properties with Better Security and More Privacy


More Efficient Connectivity

True "sentience" is tied to consciousness and self-awareness, which are qualities AI may never have, though we're closer than ever. It will require expanded connectivity to get to a point where it seems as though the property is "sentient."

A central control grid will need to be managed by Artificial Intelligence with Machine Learning segues to match the patterns of those who own the property. For example, when you come home, kick off your shoes, and lay on the couch, a "sentient" home would leverage AI and ML data toward atmospheric enhancement.

high tech homes

Hear strategies from Smart Home tech experts for choosing and implementing smart home technology. Watch the replay of our High Tech Homes webinar to explore new possibilities for home cybersecurity and automation.

Watch Now

Maybe your habit is turning on a particular light, fan, or flat screen TV. A "sentient" home might do that for you based on your patterns of entry into a house. For that to happen, the house has to be increasingly connected. Data has to be provided to the central control software of the property. This means the home of the future will have windows, doors, lights, televisions, computers, HVAC systems, microwaves, stoves, showers, toilets, and everything else tied into a central system that monitors everything and makes decisions as a result.

That's still not true "sentience", but when a house responds to you in a way that feels organic and doesn't require your direct intervention, that "feels" sentient, which is the point. So first things first: expect a marked increase in property connectivity in the near future.


An Increase in "Home" Robots and Their Effectiveness

Connectivity will be extended beyond appliances and utilities to devices that have some level of mobility. Robots, if you will. We already have devices like the "Roomba," which is a rudimentary 'bot that will trundle outside and break or fall down the stairs if you're not careful.

Better feedback loops and programming will increase the efficacy of such machines, and if they're "tied in" to a central control grid, there will be a certain level of discretion behind their use.

It's conceivable that a "sentient" home could automatically feed the cat through a robot with enough design ability to grasp a sack of food and pour some into a bowl. Imagine being able to head across the world for a month with no need for a house-sitter; you just "tell" the house to take care of the cat, and off you go.


An Increase in Wireless Controls Toward Greater "Sentience"

As previously stated, increased connectivity will imply a broadening of the types of features available in a home that is linked to some sort of central control mechanism.

That means more wireless controls that can be manipulated with commands from your voice, a smartphone, or the AI-optimized ML infrastructure running your home. Think of a "computerized housekeeper," if you will. The more wireless options there are, the greater the "sentience" of future smart homes.


More Intuitive Properties with Better Security and More Privacy

Tied into connectivity and wireless controls will be security solutions, like IoT-enabled cameras that can be accessed remotely via smartphone. Better security means more privacy.

When you can trust in privacy and security, that gives you more confidence in property, and collaterally in life generally. You truly have a secure home, like a "castle," on which you can rely.


Expanded Integration in the Near Future

Due to technological advancement, over the next 30 years, residences will become increasingly integrated. More intuitive security, increased wireless control options, more "robots", and more connectivity will define the move toward "sentient" properties. It's also noteworthy that such advancements will apply to commercial properties as well.


Read More
Security Vulnerabilities Smart Homes
Information Technology

Cybersecurity Risks for Smart Homes

Increased Internet of Things (IoT) tech means an increased hackable surface area for cybercriminals. The more devices you have, the more opportunities hackers have. Proprietary information can be stolen. HVAC systems can be deliberately set too low or too high. People can be locked out of a home or an office building, and the list goes on.

The solution here is knowing what threats to watch out for, how to combat them, and what resources you can secure to help you avoid future threats as yet unknown. For residential and commercial purposes, understanding where cybersecurity vulnerabilities exist on your smart home devices is paramount. Consider the following security issues most commonly exploited by cybercriminals:

  • Targeted Attacks and Identity Theft
  • Password Exploitation and Location Tracking
  • Home Intrusion, Damage to Appliances or Property
  • Rogue Recordings, Third-Party Flaw Exploitation, Manipulated Data


Targeted Attacks and Identity Theft

A targeted attack will exploit data to determine your patterns of activity and, through those patterns, either steal information or plan an infiltration. IoT devices make it so you can remotely activate appliances like TVs, but often such devices use sensors—even cameras—to recognize when they’re being addressed.

For example, “Alexa” has a camera that can be used for security. A hacker could hijack that camera to watch you without your knowledge. Place known cameras in locations where identity information can’t be captured by a hacker simply hijacking the feed.

high tech homes

Hear strategies from Smart Home tech experts for choosing and implementing smart home technology. Watch the replay of our High Tech Homes webinar to explore new possibilities for home cybersecurity and automation.

Watch Now

Password Exploitation and Location Tracking

IoT devices collaterally reveal whether anyone is home. They act differently when people are around. Think of it as the “sleep” function on your computer. If your computer is on, but nobody is doing anything, energy-saving settings will put the computer to “sleep”. A quick click of the mouse wakes it up again.

Well, when the computer is “sleeping,” it has different software patterns than when it is awake. Hackers can collaterally determine if anyone is in a house by monitoring the software functionality of various IoT devices they’ve hacked into. If “Alexa” knows there’s someone in the house, the device will be “listening” for them. If the property is dormant, devices won’t be “listening” in the same way, and the software running their operations reveals as much.

Next, many homeowners don’t assign new passwords to IoT devices; they just use whatever defaults come with those devices. This makes it super easy for hackers to sneak in. Alternatively, many homeowners choose passwords that are so easy to predict that hackers can sneak in without even using blunt-force techniques. Between location tracking and password exploitation, there’s much that criminals can do to hijack devices or determine if anyone is on the premises.


Home Intrusion, Damage to Appliances or Property

When hackers know you either are or aren’t at home, it makes it a lot easier for them to break in. Home intrusion often results in theft, or at minimum, damage to property or appliances. Through the process of elimination, thieves can determine which doors are secured digitally and which ones aren’t. Through hacking, they may even be able to remotely deactivate a given alarm.

Such actions tend to damage associated property, even if only in a minor way. Also, viruses and other software can be used to corrupt IoT hardware, which is additionally damaging to property. The more secure your premises are, the less likely such damage or intrusion will happen.


Rogue Recordings, Third-Party Flaw Exploitation, Manipulated Data

What is the impact of a rogue recording alluded to earlier. Devices like Alexa can be hijacked remotely to spy on you. Also, flaws in third-party hardware or software may similarly enable hackers. Better passwords and up-to-date devices reduce the threat of such an intrusion but totally eliminating it is difficult. The best idea is to ensure each device is properly secured so it can’t be hijacked. Data manipulation is a common tactic used by hackers to hide their tracks.

For example, you might have a security camera that usually captures very little in terms of activity. All a hacker needs to do is copy-paste some empty footage from earlier in the day, then loop it during the time they break into your house. If that’s done, the manipulated data will hide their home intrusion. To avoid rogue recordings, password management is integral.

Avoid third-party devices for best results in terms of security, and avoid manipulated data collaterally through such security measures on the front end. It can be worthwhile to periodically change all your passwords. Think of it as a chore, such as mowing the lawn or cleaning the gutters.


Explore Countermeasures for Property Security

Certain known smart home threats can be prevented in advance. Because smart homes increase the technological surface area of associated infrastructure, threats previously restricted to businesses are something homeowners need to protect against. We’ve covered a few of the threats you could face without proper cybersecurity measures. Here are steps you can take to make sure your smart home is as secure as it needs to be:

  • Secure Boot
  • Mutual Authentication
  • Communication Encryption
  • Security Monitoring and Analysis
  • Effective Lifecycle Management

With secure boot technology, only codes from the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) of a given device can be used with that device. Sometimes additional trusted parties can be grafted into device security. The secure boot keeps underhanded firmware from being introduced by hackers.

Meanwhile, mutual authentication facilitates prior user authentication before data transmission. So a “smart” key will be verified via an algorithm before it “unlocks” a room. This is accomplished through algorithms of the cryptographic variety that organically facilitate two-way authentication. While we’re on the topic of cryptographic security, encryption is worth exploring. Data between the cloud and a device needs to be encrypted. If your smart thermostat sends info to your smartphone, encrypting that data keeps hackers from eavesdropping. Assure that all transmitted data is properly encrypted.

Next, you want to be sure that all security monitoring solutions are themselves monitored. Data needs to be analyzed to assure it hasn’t been tampered with. Anomalous behavior of devices should predicate their removal from the system under digital quarantine. There are business options for this and residential solutions as well; you can have tech companies monitor devices and analyze their data to ensure no underhanded activity is going on. Finally, you’ve got to swap out certain device keys and devices themselves over time. It’s a sort of planned “disruption,” if you will, that will undermine hacker designs that assume no such disruption will take place. It’s important to securely and periodically decommission devices so hackers can’t find them and put them to use elsewhere.


Additional Resources to Help Keep Smart Homes Safe

So, how safe is your smart home? Well, according to the information we’ve explored here, it can be safe, but vulnerabilities exist that you need to secure against, especially as regards individual devices that haven’t been designed with appropriate security.

It’s important to stay up-to-date so you understand the cybersecurity flaws in certain smart home devices. Because the technology is new, sometimes vulnerabilities develop out of the blue. Check out resources like The Washington Post, PBS, or the World Economic Forum to be sure you’re keeping the premises as safe as possible.


Read More