Consumers lack confidence in IoT data security
The majority of consumers do not have confidence in the security of their data when it comes to using Internet of Things (IoT) devices, according to a new survey conducted by Gemalto.
The new study revealed that 90 per cent of consumers lack confidence in the security of IoT devices, while more than two thirds of consumers and almost 80 per cent of businesses support government plans to take control of IoT data security.
According to Jason Hart, chief technology officer at the digital security firm, the report highlights a significant disparity between the sensitivity of the data IoT services are handling and the strength of their data security when it comes to protecting "the data created, stored and transmitted by these devices".
"With legislation like GDPR showing that governments are beginning to recognise the threats and long-lasting damage cyber-attacks can have on everyday lives, they now need to step up when it comes to IoT security," he said. "Until there is confidence in IoT amongst businesses and consumers, it won’t see mainstream adoption."
Among other results, the research found that consumers' main security fear is the possibility of hackers gaining access to their control, with two thirds of respondents citing it as a concern. The study also found that 60 per cent of consumers were concerned about their data being leaked and 54 per cent were worried about hackers accessing their personal information.
Despite these concerns, only 14 per cent felt they were 'extremely' knowledgeable when it came to the security on their IoT devices, suggesting a gap between the complexity of their devices and their IoT education.
Mr Hart argues that, until companies and individuals take it upon themselves to resolve this issue, hackers will have the opportunity to exploit this gap.
"Until both sides increase their knowledge of how to protect themselves and adopt industry standard approaches, IoT will continue to be a treasure trove of opportunity for hackers," he said.
