Smart devices in everyday life: opportunities and security risks for consumers

Smart devices in everyday life: opportunities and security risks for consumers

The latest technologies that make our lives easier can be found everywhere. From smart devices such as the smartwatch that monitors our heart rate, to vacuum cleaner robots that independently clean the floor. Baby files with an integrated camera have also entered many households and ensure a feeling of security when the little ones sleep. But these devices also bring their own challenges.

smart products, which are part of the so -called "Internet of Things" (IoT), offer many advantages, but they also have potential security risks that many users are not clear about. These networked devices communicate over the Internet, which theoretically makes them susceptible to cyber attacks.

security risks and data protection

A central problem is data protection. Many devices collect data about user behavior that are often processed or saved without the knowledge of the user. This information can be misused by third parties, which can lead to a loss of privacy. Consumers should therefore be aware of which data they allow and what permissions they give the devices.

The use of such technologies therefore requires a certain degree of caution. It is advisable to find out more about the safety functions of the respective devices and ensure that they use current software versions.

Such comfortable products may be, it remains crucial to have an eye on safety and data protection. For a detailed view of the topic and its effects on the user, see the report At www.derstandard.at .