The 'Internet of Things' (IoT) –
a rather vague collective term for the random mix of new technology
which has now infiltrated our lives. In simple terms, it is the
group of devices that are connected to the Internet. From the
fridge which tells its owner that the milk is running low, the
interrupting virtual digital assistants, to the latest generation
of baby monitor which enables you to watch your off spring from the
pub. The list and scope of 'things' falling in this
definition arguably justifies the rather random collective noun.
And the rapid growth of this area is predicted to increase
exponentially.
Whilst these devices do unquestionably enhance the convenience
of our busy lives, there is a worry about the potential invasion to
the privacy of homes, the security implications and the
unquantifiable levels of data that must be accumulated
somewhere.
