IoT in the workplace
The Internet of Things sees everyday objects being connected to the internet, allowing them either to be controlled remotely, or to collect and share data and communicate without a human being involved. IoT in the workplace involves a variety of hardware and technologies including popular smart devices such as smart TVs, security cameras, smart locks, gaming consoles, and smart thermostats. Here are some “buyer beware” tips when purchasing these devices.
Buyer Beware Tips
Purchasing some cool devices this year? Devices such as smart TVs, security cameras, smart locks, gaming consoles, and smart thermostats are just some of the cool purchases being made this holiday season. Here are some “buyer beware” tips to help you keep risky devices out of your home network:
1. Ignore online reviews on merchant sites.
You have no idea who wrote those reviews or gave the product a good score. Sadly, there’s a plentiful supply of fake reviewers out there who will promote products they’ve never seen, let alone used, often for very modest amounts of money.
2. Don’t be deceived by name or looks.
Budget devices are easy to build so they look similar to devices that have a good reputation. Also, many different-looking products are made by the same manufacturer, based on identical hardware and software, and then branded to look like different devices for a range of affiliate merchants. In short, just because a device looks like a known-good product means very little; and just because a device looks completely different from one you already know to be bad doesn’t really help you decide either.
3. Talk to someone you know and trust to help you judge.
Some device vendors have a good reputation for security, including providing prompt updates if vulnerabilities are found. Look for independent and objective advice to confirm that’s the case for any devices you plan to buy, to ensure that you are looking at the real deal, and that you are buying the right model.
4. Be prepared to write off devices that don’t shape up.
If you discover that a device you bought has dangerous flaws and won’t be getting updates – and for cheap devices from budget merchants, that often happens – then ask for your money back. If you can’t get it back, be willing to get rid of the flawed device (please recycle responsibly!) and take the financial loss on the chin. Then go to option 1 and write that HONEST review.
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