TOP 3 Security Risks in Smart Workplaces – The Future of IoT

TOP 3 Security Risks in Smart Workplaces – The Future of IoT

In today’s world, devices are continually circulating data from one form of technology to another. In the world of IoT, many networks could be insecure and unprotected making it easy to use devices for malicious intent. Due to this reason, it’s essential to be aware of how linked equipment could harm intellectual property, customer data, or your company’s reputation. With so many increasing concerns about smarter building management and innovation in the workplace, teams need to work together to decrease threats. The question is how can your organization capitalize on smart technologies even with the rising risks? Based on Inpixon’s Securing Smart Workplaces white paper, here are three key points we will discuss today; the reality of BYOD, building vulnerabilities and the importance of collaboration.

1. BYOD

Personal devices in smart workspaces are becoming increasingly popular. In Gartner’s 2020 and beyond predictions, analysts stated that “through 2023, 30% of IT organizations will extend BYOD policies to address human augmentation in the workforce.” Certain industries that especially adopt this mentality are those in automotive manufacturing and mining verticals. As more and more employees bring personal devices into work, businesses need to find a balance between the benefits and securing their internal networks. It is very simple for indoor data to be compromised when inside smart buildings. Corporations must take into consideration devices outside of regular smartphones and laptops when putting security measures in place. Devices transmit through a technical ecosystem and can communicate over multiple frequencies hence causing a breach in the system. Transparency over BYOD devices is a very important measure that all organizations must put into place.

2. Building Vulnerabilities

The rise of IoT has also caused an increase in security threats. When comparing to offline crimes, cyber-attacks can be much more dangerous. With the ability to evolve, technologies pose a threat to confidential information and employee identities. Critical data can easily be stolen or wiped in smart buildings. Since these threats are not easily recognizable, businesses have a difficult time monitoring and managing IoT technology.  Do you believe that your company communications system is at risk for a cyber attack? Reference our cybersecurity blog post to learn how to safeguard your networks.

When selecting technology for their organization, company leaders must weigh the risks and rewards against one another. Having a business continuity plan with the right security framework is key to using these devices. Here are the various vulnerabilities smart workplaces face in the digital era:

3. Collaboration Benefits

Building an extensive security system for smart workplaces is not an easy task. It requires a lot of research, planning and debating. It’s also vital to remember that no single vendor will likely be able to fulfill all your business’s current and future goals. As the technology ecosystem continues to change, new problems and solutions can emerge. When choosing an organization to partner with, make sure you pick one who’s vision aligns with yours and is focused on researching new developments. Internal awareness is also essential, you must ensure your employees are well versed in the technology in use and the security recommendations associated with these devices.

According to the Inpixon White Paper, there are 10 action steps you NEED to keep in mind to reduce security risks. Here are the three simples ones you can implement right away:

1. Ensure the whole organization is educated on the risks.
2. Deploy an indoor intelligence platform.
3. Set up protocols to prevent unauthorized devices.¹

If you’re interested, you can download Inpixon’s ‘Securing Smart Workplaces’ white paper here:

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