5. Many smart devices, including smart meters, do not usually send data directly to the service provider or utility. Often, it is collected at a local data collation hub (say, another smart meter) before being sent. This device is a point of vulnerability and needs to be properly secured by the service provider.
6. Data being collected constantly from thousands or even just hundreds of devices means Big Data, and is usually stored and processed on the Cloud by service providers, which makes the Cloud another potential candidate for cracking! This too needs to be secured.
Users need to be aware that everything from a connected toothbrush to an automobile can be cracked into—and there is value in the data collected from each for concerned parties. Hence, as the number of connected devices in your life burgeons, take an hour out once in a while to do a security audit, and perhaps install any updates or patches provided by manufacturers.
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The author is a technically-qualified freelance writer, editor and hands-on mom based in Chennai
