What Does IoT Really Mean?

Internet of things (IoT) is simply a system of devices that are connected to the internet and can transfer data between them across a network without the need for human interaction. Devices can be digital devices, mechanical/digital machinery, objects, implantable medical devices, or aminal biochips. IoT can bring together the devices within closed private internet networks together and allowing them to communicate even if they are on different network types. These will include sensors, smartphones and wearables. Each device collects data from their environment and either send the data to the cloud or analyse it locally, which will enable them to act/respond. IoT can also make use of AI technology to make the data collection process more straightforward. Most of the processes will take place without the need for human intervention, but they can interact to set them up or input the instructions or access the data.

IoT is still in its infancy, and some devices and networks can suffer from security issues but what it provides is a future of opportunity. Once the weaknesses can be overcome, for increased efficiency in the way things are done, so saving time and money. The benefit will reach to allow companies, governments and public authorities to reconsider how they deliver their services and produce goods. It will offer the potential to automate many more processes and reducing manufacturing and delivery costs.

Some of the potential benefits of IoT in different sectors and industries include;

IoT in Farming – the use of sensors to collect information on environmental factors such as; rainfall, humidity, temperature and soil content, would all go towards the automation of farming techniques.
Smart home – use of smart devices to control lighting, heating, security systems will help people to use energy with increased efficiency by automating the shut off such devices while also providing convenience for consumers around their home.
Medical and Healthcare IoT – will include features such as remote healthcare monitoring, emergency notification systems, smart beds.
Wearables – the industry that has quickly embraced IoT and deployed it for its services is that of wearable technology. Smartwatches, virtual glasses, heart rate monitors and even glucose monitors are widely available.
Smart Cities – will have IoT applications in waste management and control, traffic control, smart parking, and fleet management.
Smart Retail – use of IoT by retailers to communicate directly with consumers to enhance the in-store experience and improve the design and layout based on consumer paths through the store.

Currently, the issue with IoT devices is that there is no international standard for the manufacture, which means that compatibility is an issue when it comes to devices from different manufactures communicating with one another.

There are also privacy concerns raised to the amount of data collected by the various devices and how that data can be used by companies for their own purposes and also potentially access by criminals. So the security of such networks is a paramount issue to be considered and applied by manufactures of the devices. Even with the weaknesses that IoT is currently showing the potential applications for the future are vast, and this technology is set to change the way we live our lives entirely.

The Technologies That are Revolutionising Healthcare

Technological advances in the last 20 years have revolutionised the healthcare industry and have given tools to create truly amazing solutions. Below is an exploration of some of the technologies that have created the most significant impact in recent times.

3D Printing

Since the birth of 3D printing technology in 1983, we have come a long way in a relatively short time. 3D printing technology has given new and innovative solutions to many different human problems over the last ten years. The applications across many industries are endless, and the possibilities are still being realised. With just the medical 3D printing industry is s estimated that by 2027 will be worth more than $6 billion. With a vast array of applications, including;

Pre-op planning – creating 3D models of organs to help surgeons plan surgeries to a higher level of accuracy, and so reducing surgery time and recovery.
Prosthetics and implants – to design prosthetic limbs and implants that will be specific and the best fit for individuals.
Surgical tools and instruments – they can be designed and manufactured with increased precision and even customised for surgeries.
Dentistry – printing of customised dental implants can be done quickly and on-site.
Bioprinting – 3D printing human tissue to make skin grafts for burn victims and eventually print organs for patients requiring transplants.

Robotics

Since the 1980’s when the first experimental surgical robots were introduced into hospitals, to the present day, that sees the potential applications for the healthcare sector continue to grow, we can see how they will not only improve what exists but even extend the services that are provided. Robots will help carry the burden of repetitive and monotonous tasks so that, staff can deal with the more critical issues and carry out the tasks that require human decision-making skills.

One application of robotics in healthcare that is currently expanding, with less of the difficulties in implementation into settings, and propelled even more so with the current COVID-19 pandemic, is their use for disinfection. One way self-driving robots are being used is to disinfect patient rooms is by using UV light. Such technology is highly effective at killing viruses and bacteria without the use of chemicals, a process known as Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI). Using such technology will reduce the risk for staff to come into contact with infectious viruses and bacteria. The further development of the robotic and AI technology will reveal further what roles they will play in the healthcare sector, as the roles of healthcare professionals will adapt to embrace their presence.

Wearable technology

Recent developments in wearable technology with advances in the sensors that can be incorporated has seen the potential of remote vital sign monitoring become much closer to reality. Healthcare providers would be able to monitor patients in real-time as outpatients, so saving the healthcare system millions. It would decrease the need for hospital admissions and detect vital signs abnormalities sooner, avoiding more complex health issues. The devices providing features such as heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation monitoring along with side health and lifestyle patterns and chronic condition monitoring makes it possible and often better for clinicians to monitor and diagnose patients.

The potential of wearable technology becoming an aid for the medical profession is in part helped by the acceptance of wearable technologies by consumers, a survey showing that usage increased from just 9% in 2014 to 33% in 2018.

Virtual Reality and AI

Even though virtual reality (VR) is a technology generally known for entertainment and gaming industry, it has proved to have some incredibly useful applications. The healthcare industry is one of those that has adopted this technology. The use of VR in surgery simulation and skills training has proved to be an invaluable tool. It is allowing for training in a safe environment but also for skill refreshing. VR has also been used in robotic surgery, which enables the surgeon to use a robotic arm to perform surgery. With the main beneficial feature is providing force feedback allowing the surgeon to gauge the pressure required when performing delicate procedures. VR also has uses in the rehabilitation of patients, the treatment of pain, and even to help treat phobias.

The major advantage of all of these technologies and others like them is the flexibility they provide with the potential for them to be adapted to many sectors and niches of medicine. The wide range of potential applications available to both improves healthcare for the patients and the ability of healthcare professionals to provide it.

What is a Data Breach and How to Prevent It

Many people are unaware of how vulnerable they are to data breaches. Anyone is at risk of experiencing a data breach from a single individual to corporations and governments. It is the person or organisation’s responsibility to protect their data. Since the introduction of GDPR, it is a legal liability for companies that carry fines up to €20 million or 4% of turnover.

What is a Data Breach, and how do they occur?

A data breach can be defined as a security violation in which sensitive, protected, or confidential data is copied, transmitted, viewed, stolen, or used by an individual unauthorised to do so.

The compromisation of data can have adverse effects for both the party that has had their data breached but also the people or organisations who have had their data stolen/exposed.

Breaches will happen due to weakness in either the technology or user behaviour. Data breaches are not always from the outside of an organisation; it can come from inside.

An accidental data breach can occur when an unauthorised person views sensitive data. Even if the data is not shared, it would still be considered a breach of data because a person saw it with no authority to do so, and this could have many repercussions.
A malicious insider data breach is when sensitive data is purposely accessed by an unauthorised individual and shared/exposed with intent to cause harm to the company/organisation.
Another form of a data breach is when an unencrypted and unlocked device containing sensitive data is lost/stolen.

Most data breaches will come externally to the organisation and commonly by a cyberattack, which can happen by way of different methods;

Phishing
Brute force attack
Malware

How to prevent data breaches?

Companies and organisations need to take the necessary steps to protect the data they hold. Protecting data of customers/clients is crucial for building trust between the company/ organisation and the customer/client. There are several practices to consider when looking to protect a company’s data from breach;

Patching & updating software to help ensure any known vulnerabilities are repaired and secured.
High-grade encryption on all devices to protect the sensitive data it contains should it be stolen or lost.
Ensure all devices connected to the network/servers have adequate antivirus protection and business-grade VPN, including any “bring your own devices” employees have been allowed to use in any way to access company data.
Use strong credentials and multi-factor authentication to protect data from being accessed by password guessing.
Educating employees on the importance of data protection and potential vulnerabilities. Increasing awareness will help reduce the possibility of mistakes that can lead to data breaches. Also giving them the tools to recognise possible malicious behaviour in others.
Using intruder detection on any systems that are accessible to the internet such a servers and email systems, to protect the data contained within them.
Backing up to the cloud will eliminate the risk of sensitive data being stolen from backup drives and data backup tapes.
Systems should be very regularly scanned and checked for vulnerabilities. Security can only be as strong as the weakest point in the system. So a regular risk assessment will minimise the risks of data breaches.
Implement automated safeguards such as password checking and assess firewall configuration. Automated safeguards will aim to reduce human error, which accounts for most cases of data breaches.

By following these practices, organisations and individuals can significantly reduce the chance of a data breach and in turn protect your company and personal data.

Does your Security System Need a Refresh?

An up-to-date security system is a huge benefit to businesses. Not only will it be a deterrent to intruders but also help protect a business from potential disputes and lawsuits. However, security solutions will at some point require an upgrade, for it to remain an effective and efficient tool. Some of the reasons that you would consider an upgrade to security systems are;

Outdated technology

The development of technology systems has evolved at tremendous speed over recent times. The efficiency and performance of security equipment have improved to provide more accurate data and better data storage solutions. Poor quality images and unreliable CCTV systems no longer need to be an issue for businesses. Another problem with outdated systems is that repair and replacement parts become more costly and harder to do. Modern systems are smart and integratable, they can offer remote surveillance but also allow for smart access control for employees. Using keyless entry and restricted areas within buildings, and detailed access records is possible to install without any major modification to the building structure or fittings.

Alterations to premise

Any changes to the structure of the building will render the previous security solution inadequate for the new space. The position of CCTV cameras and or any access control system will need to be adapted to the new layout to ensure that the function of the system will meet the business requirement.

Being more Eco

Not necessarily the aspect that is usually linked to security systems but with the increasing global awareness of everyone doing their part and making changes to be more eco-friendly. Modern technology tends to be much more energy-efficient and so contributing towards reducing the carbon footprint. The other benefit of modern technology is the availability of a wireless solution that will reduce the amount of plastic required between devices.

If you want to get advice on your security system or are thinking of getting one installed contact Arana Security for a no-obligation chat.

Moving on from Passwords

Passwords have been around in one form or another since ancient times, spoken words to allow passage. But the first time a password was used to login to a computer was in 1961, for a computer system at MIT. We have come a long way, from that first time to an age where usernames and passwords are used daily to access our information, accounts, and devices. Today we find ourselves at the next stage, the rise of biometric authentication.

The use of Biometric data as authentication.

While the origins of biometric data use lay in criminal investigations, authorities used fingerprints to identify suspects of crimes. Nowadays it had become an important aspect of our daily lives. When biometrics is mentioned it does not just mean fingerprints, but it\’s also, iris scan, voice print/recognition, palm scan, brain waves, heart signals, DNA identification, and behavior biometrics. With the surge of biometric data available has led to an increase in the number of applications for its use as well as creating an industry that builds the devices to collect and solutions to store all the data securely.

Not surprisingly the first aspect that biometric technology has enhanced is security. The rise of biometric authentication has meant that the use and dependence on passwords has already started to decline. With biometrics offering a superior level of security than can be provided by passwords alone, it’s not difficult to see why. Human biometrics cannot be replicated or forgotten which offers convenience that consumers look for. Combined with industry trends that have led consumer device manufacturers investing in developing and installing biometric sensors and

readers into their devices, makes the use of biometric authentication more easily accessible.

Why are we choosing Biometric data over passwords?

Research has also shown that people struggle with remembering different passwords and pins. This tends to create inconvenience and delay in gaining access to accounts and in turn leading to frustration. Which can explain the research that has shown a significant number of people use the same passwords for different accounts and logins, from online banking, online retailers to social media end emails. With research showing that even today, with all the information available to consumers regarding login/account security, the number one password in use is ‘123456’. This will create convenience for the individual but will also leave them more vulnerable to fraud. If one account is compromised this increases the potential that further sensitive information can be obtained. The risks are possessed from password-stealing software, which can harvest autofill data, credit card numbers, saved passwords, and other sensitive information stored in people’s web browsers. This not only causes issues for the individual but is costing businesses and institutions time and money. It’s much more difficult to steal biometric data, which makes it a more secure option for use as proof of identity.

The finance sector has already heavily adopted the use of biometrics in a multi-level authentication for its customers, creating a more secure and easier to implement a verification system. Already the banks who have implemented the use of voice biometric verification estimate millions of pounds have been prevented from falling into the hands of criminals through banking fraud.

What does the future Hold for passwords?

It’s premature to say that passwords will disappear entirely anytime soon. What is changing is that passwords will no longer be the main authentication method. Consumers look for convenience but that has to be balanced with the need for data to be secure. To have higher security for consumers’ accounts and data there is a need to have Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) methods. MFA uses different forms of verification in unison with each other, for example using a pin with fingerprint verification.

The other factor of using biometric is the level of confidence that consumers have. Paysafe’s recent research shows that COVID-19 has made a significant impact on views of the security of online payments. 41% said they trusted manual passwords more than biometrics. So as business develop their online platforms it’s crucial to continue to educate and inform consumers of the benefits of biometrics.

Innovative Biometric solutions for the education sector

The current global pandemic has led to shifts in the biometric security industry. Accelerating the demand and shifting the focus on to contactless access control and security systems. The future involves a move away from touchpad systems for fingerprinting, palm scanners, and such technology. Instead, there will be a move towards contactless fingerprint scanners and face recognition solutions.

Why does the education sector need biometric solutions?

Education institutions will have different levels of need for biometric solutions depending on their set-up and size but generally, their use can enhance the student experience. Biometric systems can more efficiently record student attendance while streamlining administrative tasks for the teachers, thus increasing the time they are available to teach. The added benefit is the attendance data is more readily available with increased accuracy, as it can\’t be forged and human error risks are removed.

The more obvious need for biometric systems is for access control to provide safe and controlled environments for both staff and students. Facilities installing a biometric system at the main entrance will produce an accurate record of who enters and leaves the premises as well as preventing unauthorised access to the building. A biometric system can also be extended to include allowing students to access different facilities such as the library, canteen, printing, equipment allocation, specific classrooms/labs, or even to prevent access to certain areas.

What are the potential Biometric Solutions?

Arana Security can provide customised solutions to the education sector that is tailored to their specific needs and requirements. There are 3 potential systems that can be of benefit;

1. IDEMIA VisionPass Face Recognition

One innovation anticipated to have wide use before the end of the new decade is facial recognition. VisionPass is the most powerful facial recognition device in the current market. The newest addition to IDEMIA’s range of frictionless biometric access control devices. This robust and reliable device provides near-motion 1-second verification through multiple angles and in all light conditions and is resistant to all kinds of spoofing attempts. This is the ideal solution for contactless access control to facilities

2. Contactless enrollment/access control with IDEMIA Morphowave Compact

IDEMIA created their patented, contactless 3D fingerprinted technology, to accurately and quickly capture fingerprints with a single hand movement. Convenient and simple to use whilst removing surfaces that act as potential germ transmission. The Morphowave Compact can also be used with the VisionPass for access control solutions.

3. Biobox enrolment

Using Arana Security’s Biobox enrollment and verification system, with an integrated biometric application and hardware, to capture and store biometric data. A trusted, and flexible biometric enrolment system will help create a much more efficient, accurate, and faster enrollment process for students. The biometric data can include face recognition, fingerprints, Iris, and signature. The quality of biometric data is such that it can be printed and ID cards even created should there be a need. The system is easily customised with various types of biometrics and peripherals to create the required enrollment workflow.

The Future of Biometrics in the Education sector is here

Education facilities are continually implementing the use of new technologies, to both support and enhance the learning experience. Using technology such as tablets, laptops and smart-boards are a common sight in education institutions. A step towards biometrics can bring further benefits. Not only will using biometrics assist the daily operations but also bring aspects such as accountability, security, and authentication. As well as student attendance, the system can be used for staff time and attendance. To control access with biometrics to restricted areas will ensure that confidential documents are kept secure.

What you need to know about application development?

The fast-paced world of smart devices has in turn brought about not only a massive industry but a world of opportunity for so many with the creation of the applications (Apps) market. From the humble beginnings of ‘snake’ on Nokia, considered to be the first app by many, in 1997, to the leap that Apple made by launching the Apple store with 500 Apps in 2008, was just the beginning. Today there are millions of Apps available across multiple platforms. In 2018 the global apps market was valued at $106.27 billion, which is expected to exceed $400 billion by 2026.

What is an App?

A term that is denoted to a computer program that runs on PC, mobile phones, tablet, or other electronic devices. Each app is designed with functionalities related to its intended use.

There are 3 types of applications;

Native Apps – are those developed specifically for the mobile on a particular platform such as Android or iOS. They have full access to the device’s functions and capabilities which will allow for a richer user experience and interactive opportunities. These types of apps will have a higher development cost and require maintenance. Also, these apps will use storage space on the mobile device.

Web Apps – these are accessed through the web browser. They are responsive websites and so will adapt to the users’ device. It does not require the user to download it, so they don’t use storage, they only need an internet connection. They have lower development costs and can be accessed from any device, it’s not limited to a particular platform, ie Android or iOS. The limitation that it cannot access the device functions and capabilities as the native Apps do so will give a more limited experience.

Hybrid Apps – As the name suggests these are a mixture of both native and web Apps. they are developed using web technologies but will act in a way that native Apps do. The advantage is they are faster and cheaper to develop and lower cost to maintain. The disadvantage is that they do not give an optimised user experience.

Why Do we have them and need Apps?

Research shows that people are increasingly spending more time on their device as well as becoming more dependent on the functionality that these devices provide. The tools provided to users by the Apps mean that gradually people are more dependent on them.

The benefits of an App to a business include;

Increased visibility
A direct marketing tool to consumers/users
Building brand recognition
Increasing customer loyalty

There are also benefits to the user of the apps, which include;

Getting up to date information from business/brands they rely on
Having access to a large number of tools that will increase productivity to help manage an aspect of their life
Gives a loyal customer benefits/ rewards
Provides convenience to have so many resources available at the touch of a button.

How are Apps developed?

One of the critical points to consider when exploring the App development process is the availability of resources. App development can be a lengthy and costly process. Depending on; the type of App and the platform chosen, the level of maintenance required, functions the app will provide, if it requires customer support, all will affect the level of investment required.

A brief outline of what the development process may look like;

The first step would be to conceptualise the App, purpose, functions, and platform/type.
Research the market and do a feasibility study, who is the competition?
Design the workflow and interface
Develop the App according to specification, using in-house, outsourcing, etc
Testing of the App to make sure it works as expected with no bugs
Launch it

This is a simplified suggestion of the process of the development of an App. it can take anywhere from 3 to 9 months (sometimes even longer) to develop an App, depending on the complexity. The App market has become massively competitive, with an estimated 6 million Apps available in Google Play and Apple Store combined. With a good idea, plan, and good implementation the rewards can be worthwhile.

Smart Cards and Access Control

The global smartcard market is expected to reach $24.4 billion by 2027 which is an accelerate increase caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The demand for technology that reduces human physical interaction outside of the home has been shunted into the for-front of many business leaders’ minds as a solution to reducing potential points of spread of illness.

What are smart cards?

They are credit card size plastic cards embedded with a micro-controller and/or a memory chip, that will store or transect data depending on its particular function. This data is usually associated with either value, information, or both and is stored and processed within the card’s chip. Smart cards are used for many different reasons in varying settings. The uses for smart cards include identification, authentication, financial, mobile phone (SIM), data storage and application processing.

Smart cards have been widely used in the financial sector for many years now, in order for banks to offer their customer more flexibility securely. In more recent years smart cards have been applied to the transport system allowing travellers to move around more efficiently and to retail loyalty schemes.

What are the Types of Smart cards?

There are different types of smart cards based on how they are read by the card reader device;

Contact Smart Card – the most common type of smart card and is required to be physically inserted into a card reader to work.
Contactless Smart Card – can be read by the reader when the card is in close proximity and does not necessarily require physical contact with the reader. the communication between the card and reader happens via radio wave frequency.
Hybrid cards – this type of card contain both contact and contactless interfaces that are not connected and can give increased range of function. This is rare type of card, not widely used.

How Do Smart card Readers work?

A device that is used to read or process

Smart cards require a reader to access the information or to process the application stored within the chip. There are 2 ways to connect to the reader;

Physical contact readers – use electrical contacts on the card chip to connect with the reader when the card is inserted.
Contactless readers – uses radio frequencies such as Short-range wireless connectivity (RFID) or Near field communication (NFC) to read the card when it comes into close proximity to the reader.

How are Smart Cards used in Access control?

A smart card access control system is a cost-effective security system that is used to restrict or monitor access of personal within a building/area. By using anyone of the smart card types and reader combination a security system can be designed and even customized for a business needs and requirements. Using smart cards for access control allows for higher level of security and also provides more efficient access control for employees/staff within a business. The smart card can also be used for other tasks such as time and attendance records, accessing vending machines, allowing photocopying and printing and logging onto computers.

Smart card sector is a large global market with potential for expansion. The use of smart cards in security adds benefits and reduces cost so likely to be further developed and invested in many business and manufactures alike.

Biometric Data Security – How Safe is Biometric Data

Biometric data is the unique information that can be used to identify a person with accuracy. With every industry being enrolled into the use of biometric authentication, the concerns and reluctance of consumers with regards to the safety of their biometric data becomes ever more important to address them. In 2019 survey showed that 56% of Europeans expressed concern over the security of biometric data.

Although data security has always been an issue, hacking and stolen information has caused many issues for companies/businesses over the years, once a breach is known then passwords and usernames can be changed. However, biometrics cannot be changed as they are unchangeable human features which adds to the complication of securing the data.

To use biometrics for authentication, the data must first be collected, analysed and converted to data, in the form of a biometric template. This will help to keep the biometrics in a more secure format.

The biometric data can be stored in different ways:

Hardware based recognition system

The data is stored locally onto a hardware that will work with the Biometric device to recognize the data. This will give a rapid response as it doesn’t require an external response, instead the data is stored locally. This is one of the more secure methods for storage of the data, as it doesn’t need to be transferred.

Portable Token System

The biometric data is stored within a token and be part of a 2-part authentication process, using ID card and the token. This can be a more costly method but as you need 2 step verification, then security is increased, reducing risk of compromise and fraud.

End-user Device

Most commonly smartphone device, stores the data on a chip, separate to the device network. This method means that the implementer or the biometric data has no control over it. This is a more secure method as the data is not stored on large database and little risk of hacking.

Biometric Server

A cost-effective but potentially susceptible method. The biometric data is held on an external server and should be encrypted when transfer is happening to protect it. It is more susceptible to hacking.

Distributed Data Storage

This uses both a server and device to store the data. This system is makes it more difficult for data to be compromised and gives the business complete control of the data.

Business must continuously look to the security of their data and improve processes. Also, to opt for the solutions that gives the most secure options for the biometric data and to meet their responsibility to the consumer whose data they must protect.