The Internet of Things (IOT) is a huge buzz word, and it is growing hugely at the moment, making some companies and people a bit nervous, with many wondering how they will control this technology phenomenon.
This is according to Derick Roberts CEO of wireless specialist TruTeq Devices, which provides wireless solutions to a wide range of markets.
In its latest report Gartner said there will be approximately 5 billion such devices in use this year, growing to 25 billion, more than half of them consumer-focused, by 2020.
“Smart” devices are the latest big craze, whether in connected homes – such as geezers, light bulbs, remote controlled garage doors openers, locks and various appliances, or new wearable devices.
But, while The IOT promises us with improved control and efficiency in our lives, it brings a downside.
Roberts pointed out that there have been a number of cases relating to the hacking of automobiles’ smart technology, meaning connectivity can come at a heavy cost.
According to computer publication, Techcrunch, hundreds of millions of records are now exposed, from health insurance to government agencies, with no sign of any slowdown. There seems no end in sight. And while this phenomenon is mostly found in developed economies, it is coming to emerging economies too.
There are going to be consequences. This could range from lights turning on and off by mistake and coffee makers starting up in the middle of the night. There could be a lot of glitches. Possibly the most alarming is the ability to hack into the high technology of modern car.
“No matter what we do. Even if we try to resist, the growth of the IOT will continue unabated and we will have billions and billions of devices connected within a short period of time. Whether we like it, or not.”