Technology in the Workplace: The Sinister Allure of Wearable Tech on the Job
The wearables market, marked by a multitude of manufacturers and operating systems, is still in its nascent stages. However, its potential to revolutionize the way we access information and optimize processes is undeniable. Yet, it also poses significant security risks that businesses must address proactively.
The Impact on Enterprise Networks and IT Security
Wearables, such as smartwatches, fitness trackers, and AR glasses, collect sensitive data (health metrics, location) and connect via wireless protocols (Bluetooth, WiFi), thereby expanding the attack surface for cyber threats. This expansion has resulted in a 68% rise in security incidents involving IoT devices, including wearables, highlighting their attractiveness to attackers.
The data collected by wearables often crosses corporate and personal contexts, making governance and compliance more complex. Moreover, the battery and resource constraints of wearables complicate the installation of heavy security software or frequent updates.
Recommended Strategies for Secure Use
To ensure secure usage of wearables in the workplace, businesses should adopt a multi-faceted approach combining policy development, technical defenses, user training, and continuous monitoring.
Develop and Enforce Comprehensive Security Policies
Define device management, data protection, user authentication, and acceptable use policies explicitly for wearables. Regularly update these policies based on threat intelligence and vendor security advisories to address emerging vulnerabilities.
Technical Controls
Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) combining passwords, tokens, or biometric data to secure device and network access. Network monitoring and endpoint detection tools should be used to track wearable device activities and flag anomalies. Secure application programming interfaces (APIs) and anti-ransomware and malware protection tailored for IoT and wearable ecosystems should also be employed.
User Education and Training
Train employees on cyber hygiene, including safeguarding credentials, recognizing phishing, and understanding wearable-specific risks. Educate users on proper wearable use, data privacy concerns, and incident reporting procedures.
Software and Firmware Management
Keep wearable device software, firmware, and connected network infrastructure up to date with security patches to mitigate exploits.
Network Security Enhancements
Use VPNs and strong password policies to secure remote connections involving wearables. Segment enterprise networks to limit wearable device access to critical systems.
Balance Security with Performance
Optimize security solutions so they do not overly impact wearables' limited battery life or functionality.
In conclusion, wearable technology requires enterprises to adapt IT security policies and employ a multifaceted approach to address the unique cybersecurity challenges presented by wearables in the workplace. A wait-and-see approach will not suffice when it comes to managing wearable devices in the workplace.
Organisations need to reassess their mobile strategies due to the increasing use of wearables, consider the effect that wearable devices will have on their network, and manage bandwidth to prepare for their increasing use. A choose-your-own-device (CYOD) strategy can help manage the web of devices and operating systems while maximizing the benefits of wearable devices.
As more devices connect to the network and the amount of data increases, there will be significant performance implications, not just on the wireless infrastructure but on the entire IT network. It is important to assess the security and privacy issues of wearables and manage bandwidth to prepare for their increasing use.
Sources:
[1] Trend Micro (2020). Wearable Technology in the Workplace: Security Challenges and Recommended Strategies. Retrieved from https://www.trendmicro.com/vinfo/us/security/research-and-analysis/threat-reports/2020/wearable-technology-in-the-workplace
[2] Gartner (2018). Predicts 2018: Wearable Devices Will Disrupt Enterprise Networks. Retrieved from https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2018-01-24-gartner-predicts-wearable-devices-will-disrupt-enterprise-networks
[3] CES (2014). CES 2014: The Wrist Revolution. Retrieved from https://www.ces.tech/blog/the-wrist-revolution/
[4] Forrester (2017). The Internet of Things: A Guide To Security. Retrieved from https://www.forrester.com/report/The+Internet+Of+Things+A+Guide+To+Security/-/E-RES137082
[5] IBM (2018). IoT Security: A Guide To Securing The Internet Of Things. Retrieved from https://www.ibm.com/blogs/internet-of-things/2018/03/iot-security-a-guide-to-securing-the-internet-of-things/
- As the wearables market expands and these devices become more prevalent in business environments, it is crucial for organizations to implement comprehensive security policies specifically for wearables, enforcing multi-factor authentication, user training, software and firmware management, network security enhancements, and balancing security with performance to ensure secure usage.
- The increasing adoptions of wearables in the workplace pose significant challenges to enterprise networks and IT security, necessitating a reassessment of mobile strategies, managing bandwidth to accommodate the growing number of connected devices, and addressing the security and privacy concerns associated with these devices to ensure seamless integration and optimum performance.
