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Why Tech-Savvy People Avoid Smart Tech

Why Tech-Savvy People Avoid Smart Tech

Cybersecurity Snacks
November 08, 2023

Nathanael/Cybersecurity Snacks

Good morning. Today, we are covering the disadvantages of smart tech. We will also bring you the latest news and jobs in the cybersecurity field. First time reading? Sign up here

Main Meal

Why Tech-Savvy People Avoid Smart Tech

Remember when we thought tech was just a handy tool? When "smart" meant quick calculations or speedy word processing?

We've come far, haven't we? Our lives are now woven into the digital fabric - smart homes, wearable devices. The march of progress seems unstoppable.

But with every leap forward comes new challenges. Imagine coming home to find your AI assistant has shared your private conversations online because of a glitch. Or picture being stuck in traffic during an internet outage and your autonomous car can't navigate anymore.

The rapid rise of smart technology brings more than convenience; it also opens Pandora's box full of potential drawbacks - privacy concerns, dependence on connectivity and power, complexity issues...the list goes on.

Today, I pull back the curtain to expose what's lurking behind our shiny gadgets.

Privacy Concerns with Smart Technology

Smart tech, while helpful, has a darker side. It's like a nosy acquaintance who is privy to too much of your personal info. With devices that collect data on your habits and preferences, privacy becomes a luxury.

Smart TVs can listen in, even when off. Creepy? Definitely.

Worse still is the threat of unauthorized access. Hackers getting their hands on your personal info isn't just scary; it’s downright dangerous.

Dependence on Connectivity and Power

Smart tech's lifeline is power and connectivity. When these fail, your smart home can feel like a haunted house.

Your fridge may not keep track of groceries or suggest recipes anymore. Your thermostat might forget about maintaining the perfect temperature for you. Even worse, imagine being locked out because your smart lock couldn’t connect to the internet.

This reliance isn't just inconvenient; it could be dangerous too. If there’s an emergency but power's out, then security systems and communication devices would go offline as well.

Complexity and Usability Issues

Smart tech, while impressive, can be a headache. Just ask anyone who's tried to fix their Wi-Fi at 3am. For some folks, the complexity of these devices leads to real usability issues.

Usability, in essence, is about how easy a device or system is to use. When we add more features and functions (hello smart tech), it often gets harder for users to navigate.

This means those not so tech-savvy might struggle with even basic tasks on their shiny new gadgets. But, hey - isn't that why we have grandchildren?

Economic Implications of Smart Tech Adoption

Adopting smart tech isn't all rainbows and unicorns. It can take a hefty bite out of your wallet, with the high cost of devices and upkeep. Think about it like buying a sports car; you're not just paying for the ride but also the premium gas, insurance, and maintenance.

A World Economic Forum report highlighted another potential downside - job displacement. As more tasks become automated, we could see a shift in employment opportunities.

The adoption rate is rising fast though. So, while this tech revolution might be pricey now, competition should eventually drive prices down. Still feeling worried? Remember when flat screen TVs were only for the rich?

Health Risks Associated with Smart Technology

Prolonged use of smart tech can lead to health issues. For example, exposure to blue light can disrupt your sleep and may lead to health issues such as diabetes, cancer, obesity, and heart disease.

But it's not just physical. Our mental well-being might take a hit too. The feeling of always being 'on' can cause stress and anxiety.

Security Vulnerabilities in Smart Tech

Smart tech, while convenient, can be a hotbed for hackers. Unsecured devices are like open doors to cyber criminals. They don't just let them peek into your personal life but give them control over your smart home. Data breaches have become more common than you might think.

To make things worse, some companies rush products without adequate security measures because they prioritize features and aesthetics over safety protocols. This leaves users exposed and at risk.

Environmental Impact of Smart Technology

Smart tech, while convenient, has an impact on our planet. A big part of this is e-waste generation. As we continually upgrade to the latest devices, old ones become waste.

In fact, 50 million tons of e-waste are produced annually worldwide - and only 20% gets recycled.

The other environmental concern? Energy consumption. Sure, smart tech helps save energy at home but consider the data centers powering these gadgets.

In 2022, global data centers consumed an estimated 240-340 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity, accounting for approximately 1-1.3% of the world's total electricity demand.

Social Implications of Smart Tech Use

Smart tech, while innovative and handy, may have unintended social consequences. One notable issue is the potential reduction in human interaction. With devices doing everything from ordering groceries to booking appointments, we risk losing valuable face-to-face contact.

This isolation can be more pronounced among older adults who might struggle with these technologies. A recent article reveals how some seniors feel left behind in our rapidly digitalizing world.

Not all people have the same chances to employ or possess advanced tech, which could amplify existing social discrepancies. Not everyone has equal opportunities to use or own smart tech, which could widen existing social inequalities.

News

Lee Rosario/Pixabay

Boeing Reports Cyberattack

Boeing confirmed a cyber incident affecting its parts and distribution business. The attack does not impact flight safety. The company is investigating and notifying customers and suppliers. The LockBit ransomware group claims responsibility for the attack and threatens to leak sensitive data if Boeing does not pay a ransom [more]

Kaspersky Exposes Gamer Cyberattacks on Rise: Hackers Want to Level Up Too!

According to cybersecurity company Kaspersky, cybercriminals have been increasingly targeting the global gaming community, which accounts for nearly half of the world's population. The report found that gamers were vulnerable to web vulnerabilities, DDoS attacks, cryptocurrency mining, and phishing campaigns.

Minecraft was the most targeted game, followed by Roblox and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. The report also highlighted the growing threat to mobile gamers, with Minecraft being the primary target for attacks.

Kaspersky recommends downloading games from official stores and using reliable security solutions [more]

Dallas County in Panic mode as Dark Web Hackers Threaten to Release Stolen Data

Dallas County is investigating a data breach after hackers stole files and posted them on the dark web. The ransomware group, Play, has threatened to release the stolen data if no action is taken.

Dallas County officials have not disclosed the ransom amount or whether personal information was included in the stolen data. Cybersecurity experts are questioning the county's security measures and urging organizations to prioritize cybersecurity before an attack occurs [more]

40 Countries Make a Ransomware Pledge

40 countries, including the US and the EU, have pledged to refuse ransomware payments to government entities. This is part of the International Counter Ransomware Initiative conference. The conference also agreed to improve information sharing about the cryptocurrency accounts used by ransomware attackers3. Two platforms will be created for this purpose, and a US Treasury blacklist will be used [more]

Hackers Steal Patient Data and Employee SINs

Hackers have stolen data from Ontario hospitals and are holding it hostage. The stolen data includes information on 5.6 million patient visits and the social insurance numbers of over 1,400 employees. The hospitals have refused to pay the ransom, but the hackers have published some of the data online [more]

DNS-based Attacks Make a Comeback, Hackers Discover the Phonebook of the Internet

Recent data shows an increase in Domain Name System (DNS) attacks, which are often overshadowed by flashy cyberattacks. The financial sector is particularly at risk, with a 4,500% increase in daily DDoS attacks in Q3 2023 [more]

Taiwan Under Cyberattacks

Taiwan has earned the impressive title of the place with the highest number of cyberattacks in the world. While the majority of attacks come from China, Taiwanese officials assure the public that they are quite skilled at defending themselves against these malicious activities [more]

Microsoft Admits Being Hacked So Many Times it Decided to Revamp Security Products

Microsoft has vowed to revamp its security products after being repeatedly hacked. The company plans to use artificial intelligence and other methods to improve its response to vulnerabilities and better protect customers.

This comes after critics have complained that Microsoft's software is prone to flaws, making it a frequent target for hackers. Microsoft's announcement, called the Secure Future Initiative, aims to bring together every part of the company to advance cybersecurity protection [more]

Ransomware Holds Toronto Public Library Hostage

The Toronto Public Library has revealed that it has fallen victim to a ransomware attack. As a result, many library services have been disrupted, including the library website, online accounts, digital collections, and printing and computer services.

While some library users are inconvenienced, one patron isn't too concerned as they believe the hackers would only gain access to their name, address, and the strange books they read [more]

Philippines Fights Back Against Cyberattacks with New Cyber Command and a Ban on AI Apps

The Philippines is dealing with a series of cyberattacks that have exposed personal information and undermined national security. To strengthen their defenses, the country has introduced a "cyber command" and is recruiting cyber experts [more]