The internet of things is a concept that is becoming more and more a reality in today's times. If you have a smart phone, smart watch, Alexa, smart fridge, computer and other household appliances connected to the internet, this is called the Internet of Things.

Attacks on IoT are becoming more and more prevalent. These attacks can be personal because devices are connected to your living space or transportation. A competent hacker gaining access could hurt you, your family, and your possessions.

One attack in Finland knocked out a building control system that controlled temperature admist a winter storm that was currently happening. Finland Attack A DDoS attack that lasted more than a week forced people to leave offices because it was too cold inside. The impact harmed business continuity and cost money.

My perspective is to be cautious with always-online devices, understand privacy tradeoffs, and avoid adding risk without real benefit. IoT devices that control important systems should be behind a configured firewall and have a team that knows how to operate and control the device and network. Convenience can become a headache when privacy and control are lost.