Connectivity is one of the major benefits of mobile technology, but some developments have taken this aspect to crazy (and borderline ridiculous) heights. The Internet of Things is forcing businesses to rethink the conventions of connectivity in ways which previously weren’t particularly necessary. Unsurprisingly, the Internet of Things is forcing business owners and normal users alike to remain skeptical of connected technology to a certain degree, and a survey from Cisco showcases this trend perfectly.

Cisco’s survey covered 3000 North American adults who had a passing familiarity with IoT devices, providing invaluable data to both business-to-consumer and business-to-business organizations. Generally speaking, most consumers aren’t aware of just how far-reaching the Internet of Things can be. The Internet of Things encompasses all devices that have some sort of connection to the Internet, even devices that traditionally haven’t been able to take advantage of this connectivity. Some great examples include car navigation systems, street lamps, home security systems, and even health monitoring devices like pacemakers.

While the majority of users were familiar with some of the more conventional Internet of Things devices, they had no clue that some of the stranger IoT devices could boast such connectivity. Despite this considerable difference in awareness, those who knowingly use IoT devices have had a positive response to it. 53% of respondents claim that connected devices have made their lives easier, while 47% of respondents claim that they have made their lives more efficient through connected devices. Even 34% of personal connected devices have made users feel more safe, which is valuable in and of itself.

Despite these impressive numbers, only 9% of respondents claimed that their data felt more secure or private. Furthermore, only 14% of users felt that their vendors were transparent about how the information collected by these devices is used. It just goes to show that just because a device helps you, that device may not necessarily make you feel safe and secure.

Even with these suspicions, it’s probable that the Internet of Things will continue to grow, which means that your organization needs to start accounting for these devices both in and around your office. If you think about it, your employees will likely be bringing multiple devices with them to the office in the first place, so you need to have policies put into place to ensure that data security isn’t sacrificed just for the privilege of bringing personal devices into the office. A Bring Your Own Device policy can go a long way toward limiting which connected devices have influence over your company’s network.

Do you have any questions about how the Internet of Things and connected mobile devices can influence your business? Argentum IT can help. To learn more, reach out to us at (502) 473-6407.