“Security in the New World” refers to the evolving landscape of security concerns and solutions in an increasingly interconnected and technology-driven society. This advancing level of connectivity and interdependence between devices has created more data than before, and the concept of security has taken on new dimensions and challenges.
What is interconnectedness?
Before we dive into the impacts, let’s take a moment to talk about what interconnectedness means. We’ve become accustomed to how social media has expanded our connectivity reach beyond those within proximity. The same trend is happening from a technology standpoint.
Thanks to mobile computing and smart devices, we can remotely make payments, book a conference room, access a building, unlock our computer, and even order a coffee. Technology interconnectivity facilitates these transactions. We often don’t think about it (other than appreciating the additional convenience), but implications arise from these advances.
The systems we engage with “know” more about users. For instance, building owners and managers can access information about the system users (occupants) as they move about the facility, using mobile devices and facial recognition, increasing the user experience and convenience.
Interconnectedness Brings Beneficial Changes
The increased interconnectedness and technological advances have had a profound impact on improving the user experience. Below are some ways in which these developments have been beneficial:
Enhanced User Experience:
- Personalization: Technology can tailor user experiences to individual preferences by using things like the access control system to know who a user is and where they are in a facility. For example, a building can adjust the lighting conditions and climate control to a user’s preference, or the air quality of a conference room based on how many people are inside.
- Seamless Integration: Interconnected technologies can work together more effectively. For instance, smart homes can automatically adjust lighting, temperature, and security based on user habits.
Improved Communication:
- Real-Time Communication: Technologies like video conferencing and messaging apps enable real-time communication, facilitating remote work, education, and healthcare, all of which can now be scheduled and accessed as part of a room booking solution.
- Accessibility: Technology has advanced user interface design, such as touchscreens, voice recognition, and intuitive app layouts, making it easier for users with different ability levels to interact and communicate.
Efficiency and Convenience:
- Automation: Technology can automate repetitive tasks, saving time and effort. For example, self-checkout kiosks at stores and online banking have streamlined transactions.
- Data Analytics: Data-driven insights enable better decision-making in business and government, leading to improved services and products.
- E-commerce: Online shopping has transformed the retail experience. Customers can buy a vast array of products and services with convenient delivery (or pickup) options.
Healthcare Advancements:
- Telemedicine: Telehealth technologies have made it easier for patients to access medical care remotely, improving healthcare access.
- Wearable Devices: Devices like fitness trackers and smartwatches help individuals monitor and manage their health proactively and can also help provide security for patients within a facility.
Building Operations:
- Services: There is more data available about users’ movements inside a facility, allowing for more tailored services. Busy and occupied building spaces can get more frequent cleaning and maintenance services, delivering the best experience for occupants.
- Maintenance: Connectivity and location-based features allow users to identify an issue in a facility and quickly notify, from their device, maintenance staff to address it, pointing them to their specific location. This functionality expedites maintenance requests and makes responses more efficient.
Environmental Benefits:
- Energy Efficiency: Technology advancements have led to more energy-efficient appliances, vehicles, and buildings, reducing the negative environmental impact.
- Renewable Energy: The interconnected energy grids have enabled the integration of renewable energy sources, contributing to a cleaner environment.
Education:
- Online Learning: E-learning platforms have made education accessible to a broader audience, allowing for self-paced and flexible learning experiences. These are now even easier to access using the unification across identity platforms in the security space.
- Collaborative Tools: Technology enables collaboration among students and educators, fostering a more interactive and engaging learning environment.
Smart Cities:
- Urban Planning: Interconnected technologies can improve traffic management, waste disposal, and public safety, creating more livable and efficient urban environments. For many of these, the data points to facilitate them come from devices like security cameras.
From a security standpoint, the additional information about the users and the use of other credentials (such as mobile devices) starts to pivot the conversation from managing a single-credential format over to managing a user’s identity. Companies that have not been traditionally in the security space, such as Microsoft (Microsoft Places) and Apple (Apple Wallet), have been exploring this market. This change will trigger additional use cases, functionality, and interoperability that the security industry has not seen to date. It will notably have an impact on the traditional and legacy players in the market but will provide expanded offerings to many clients.
New Technology Challenges
While these benefits are significant, it’s important to acknowledge that increased interconnectedness and technology advances also bring challenges. Below are some challenges to consider:
Cybersecurity Risks:
- With increased reliance on digital technology, the risk of cyberattacks has grown. Individuals, organizations, and governments are more vulnerable to data breaches, hacking, and other cyber threats. This has necessitated a shift in security strategies towards cybersecurity measures.
- Society must invest in cyber resilience. This involves enhancing cybersecurity measures and developing the capacity to recover quickly from cyber incidents. This can be achieved through improved cybersecurity education, awareness, and incident response capabilities.
Data Privacy Concerns:
- The interconnectedness of devices and the amount of data they generate has raised concerns about data privacy. People are more aware of how their personal information is collected, stored, and used. Legislation like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), to name a few, has been introduced to protect individuals’ privacy rights.
- The importance of data privacy will continue to grow. Society will demand stronger regulations and measures to protect personal data. Individuals will need to become more proactive in managing their privacy and understanding the consequences of sharing their data.
Digital Literacy:
- As technology becomes more integrated into daily life, digital literacy will be essential. Individuals educated on how to use technology safely and responsibly can recognize online threats and make informed decisions about their digital presence.
- Continued education and awareness campaigns will be important in informing individuals, businesses, and organizations about the latest security threats and protection best practices.
Ethical Considerations:
- There will be an increased focus on the ethical use of technology. Society will need to grapple with questions about the appropriate use of surveillance, artificial intelligence (AI), and other technologies.
Surveillance, Privacy, and Regulatory Frameworks:
- Technological advancements in surveillance, such as facial recognition and AI-driven monitoring, have sparked debates about personal privacy. While these technologies can enhance security, they can also be misused or infringe on civil liberties.
- Policymakers will need to adapt and develop agile regulatory frameworks that keep up with technological advancements. This includes laws related to cybersecurity, data privacy, and emerging technologies.
Critical Infrastructure Vulnerabilities:
- Infrastructure like power grids, transportation systems, and healthcare facilities have become more interconnected and reliant on technology. This increases the potential impact of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure. Governments and organizations must invest in the security of our critical infrastructure. These investments are vital for national security and public safety.
Healthcare Security:
- Advancements in medical technology have improved patient care but have also introduced new security concerns. Protecting sensitive health data and medical devices from cyber threats is a growing challenge.
Innovation and Adaptation:
- Society must encourage innovation in security technologies and practices. As threats evolve, so must security measures. Adapting to new challenges and staying ahead of adversaries is essential.
- Collaboration between the public and private sectors will be essential for addressing security challenges. Governments, corporations, and individuals should work together to identify and mitigate security risks.
National Security:
- Nations are investing heavily in cybersecurity, recognizing that their security depends on safeguarding their digital infrastructure. Cyber warfare has become a major concern in international relations.
- Given that many cyber threats are transnational in nature, international cooperation will be crucial. Countries will need to work together to combat cybercrime and protect the global digital ecosystem.
Individual Security:
- Personal security has also been affected. The use of technology has led to concerns about personal safety in online spaces, with cyberbullying and online harassment becoming prevalent issues.
The New World of Security
In conclusion, increased interconnectedness and technological advancements have redefined our understanding of security. While they offer new opportunities to enhance security, they also present novel challenges and threats that require innovative solutions and a heightened awareness of personal and collective security.
Read Part 2: Security in the New World: How It Impacts Markets and Technology »
