Retail and online shopping are on track to break records this holiday season. E-Commerce shopping sales alone have increased 10%-15% annually prior to this year, and we know that the increases this year will be in the double digits.
According to the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA), more than a third of holiday gift givers plan on purchasing internet-of-things (IoT) gadgets.
2016 wish lists are inevitably filled with this internet-connected tech. Of course we mean computers and phones, but this term also includes a whole spectrum of IoT tech like fitness trackers, thermostats, and new cars.
There are some considerations, however, you should have before you give or get the gift of technology.
Where there’s technology, there are concerns:
Security issues.
Data privacy pitfalls.
Potential for hackers to invade.
Connected devices are subject to all kinds of threats. Cyber-attacks are becoming more sophisticated with wearable technology, which means that shoppers need to be more vigilant and diligent with security.
In light of all this, I bet you are wondering: How are you supposed to keep your technology safe from harm?
Well, here are 5 great ways to protect your network and users of this awesome tech, during the holiday season:
1. Change your passwords for yourself and any other users before signing into your wearable IoT devices. This is a great habit to get into to continue throughout the year.
2. Understand what personal data is being collected, what’s required to use each device, and what measures are available protect that information.
The more informed you are the better you can retain your privacy and often time this process can help you understand how the device itself communicates with the internet.
3. Read about how device manufacturers secure (or don’t) your device and the data involved in using it.
4. Update the software to all your IoT devices as soon as updates become available.
Keeping your wearables updated ensures a less likely chance anything bad will happen.
5. Do your homework about how your device manufacturer plans to address privacy and security concerns.
Manufacturers very rarely take any responsibility for your data or any internet-propagated risks. In fact, there are frequently outright disclaimers. Do your research!
When you’re shopping for and using technology devices this holiday season, please use this guide to determine how you can keep your technology safe! This should be a high priority for your business, not just at home.
For more online safety, security and privacy resources, check out more from our blog!