Internet Of Things - Blog Posts

Ironically, I’m still thinking about what you said that day.

For the past year, I’ve been getting myself into knowing people. The internet is full of wonders and there’s a place for everyone, even me, who was never good at this whole socializing… thing. Six years ago, I wouldn’t think I would have more relationships than I could count with my fingers. I didn’t even have a phone, and I was sixteen. But now I worry I’m not going to be able to keep up with my socials. That sounds so stupid, and it is completely beyond my understanding how I came to sound like a popular person… which begs the question: do I have lots of friends or am I just having multiple superficial, short term relationships? Or alternatively: how do time, space, shyness and sincerity work on the internet.

Time works very differently in virtual spaces. You already know the running gag of a meme or a trend dying a week after it becomes viral, but I’m not writing about that. I’m writing about the vertiginous speed at which you might be forgotten; not as a trend or as an influencer, but as a person. As a face. The weather changes quite fast in online chats, and people come and go as they please. And on that note, having a deep conversation with an anonymous account in a public forum is a strange experience, you feel both naked and accepted, both vulnerable and understood. That’s a friend you make and miss at the blink of an eye. Once, a person on those forums told me the most comforting words I needed to hear at that time: write who you are. Doing that made me able to self-reflect and find myself when I was deeply lost. I could never thank them, because, as I said, the rain is heavy and the sound is muffled. You never know when the other has left, or if they ever heard you in the first place.

It can also pull the strings of space, both closer and further away. I remember the spring of 2018. I went to Sweden and made three friends who all liked Homestuck; now, for the past years, I’ve managed to still talk to them through my phone. Isn’t that awesome.

And cliché.

So far yet so close, so close yet so far. And even then, there’s an impossible distance that eludes every metric. I’m talking about coldness. You see, even if we have everyone at the palm of our hand, we might not be able to talk to them sometimes. We have places to be and other people to meet, not to mention activities we like to do alone. Meanwhile, an ice wall seems to be rising between you and the other. Relationships get cold quickly. Or maybe that’s just me. “It would be too weird to call them now” “Does he even remember me?” “What do I talk about?” I have these questions because I worry I’ll be rejected. Fear of rejection: one of the most present on the internet, because fictional space means distance is made up too, which is a good thing since you can block anyone that hurts you, but a bad thing since anyone can marginalize you as well. Conclusively, we have full agency in what near and far mean; that’s both empowering and frightening.

Following the last train of thought, I see anonymity as a boundary in public space very few communication media have. Anonymity; this monster that seems to have shadowed all internet discussion. Let’s get this out of the way first, anonymity only exists as a concept. Even if you can fake an identity, there are parts of your true self that are impossible to hide. If you choose not to show your face, your voice still expresses who you are. If you express yourself only by text, your writing style informs of a surprising number of distinguishable features that make you up. Secondly, I’ve learned that being anonymous isn’t necessarily harmful. By one side, there’s those who use it to shield themselves for real-life consequences of spreading hate. By the other, however, and since you choose what is known of you, there’s the more general population that use it to be themselves while also being safe—they can be hurt psychologically, but never physically.

As expected of a place where people have control over the boundaries between the private and the public, people here show more honesty than elsewhere. No one can judge your body, your voice, or even your nationality if you don’t let them. Your personality alone may speak without fear.

Even then, coldness is still unavoidable.

Aristotle—sorry to pull this guy out of his grave, I’m a philosophy student and can’t help to do constant parallels—Aristotle wrote about friendship in terms of a space that surpasses another. That means you and I are not friends because we go to the same school, but because we want to meet later at the park. This, in online relationships, translates to “we are not friends because we play the same game or talk in the same forum, but because we call each other in Discord later”. Although there’s a joy in playing games with certain people, they aren’t always our authentic friends; the ground between gaming-buddies and friends is misty. This is why I met so many people, but not as many friends along the way. Most people I discussed this with had the same experience of finding interesting folk while playing a game, growing emotional investment toward them, and abruptly seeing them disappear like they never existed. So coldness is unavoidable, because when you face the uncertainty of the future, when fear of loss crawls by your back, it’s really hard not to build a shelter made of the thickest ice around your heart; not to escape having hopes, so you can’t have them crushed either.

I got myself into knowing people on the internet thinking it would be easier, but ultimately friendship is the same wherever you find it. Time seems to fly faster, but people come and go, so have fun while you can and cry when it’s over. Distance is fictional, but you don’t need to stay anywhere, be it here or in real life, if it makes you feel uncomfortable. And sure, this conception of virtuality comes in part from exploring it, and in part out of my own biases. There are things you might relate to that are ultimately subjective: this place is immense, its people, diverse... its "weather", strange. Everyone follows a different path. And ironically, I’m still thinking about what you, apparently a stranger, said that day.

You told me about the snow in Finland and the solitude of snowflakes, about friends long-lost and the impossibility of time. About cookies, both in a browser and in the oven; about humans, both stupid and wishful. Morning routines, favorite candy, nail ideas, the sun in Australia, the cliffs of Norway. We shared poems and songs, and I listened to your troubles and you listened to mine. All of these voices I’ll remember and consider my friends. Even if I lose them in the digital space, my arms will always be open to them, and to any kind stranger.

Cybersecurity in the Age of IoT: Safeguarding a Connected World

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a digital landscape woven into the fabric of our daily lives. From smart thermostats that adjust our home's temperature automatically to wearable fitness trackers that monitor our health, IoT devices make our lives more convenient and efficient. However, this convenience comes with a potential downside: cybersecurity risks. In this article, we'll break down the challenges posed by IoT and discuss how to protect these connected devices, all in plain language.

The Growing Web of Connected Devices

Picture this: you have a smart fridge that tells you when you're running low on milk and a smart lock that lets you unlock your front door with your phone. These devices connect to the internet, and that's where the trouble begins. Unlike your computer or smartphone, many IoT devices lack strong security measures. This makes them prime targets for hackers looking to sneak into your digital life.

Why Cybersecurity Matters

When hackers breach an IoT device, they could steal your personal data or use the device to gain access to your whole network. Imagine if someone could open your front door remotely or monitor your private conversations through a compromised baby monitor. That's the nightmare IoT security aims to prevent.

Protecting IoT Devices

To keep your IoT devices safe, follow these steps:

Strong Authentication: Device manufacturers must make sure only authorized people can access these gadgets. They do this by using things like fingerprints or special codes, so hackers can't just waltz in.

Regular Updates: You know how your smartphone asks you to update its software? IoT devices need those updates too. These updates fix security holes and keep your gadgets safe from prying eyes.

Encrypted Communication: When your IoT devices talk to the internet, they should use a secret code (encryption) to keep their conversations private. Just like you wouldn't want anyone listening to your phone calls, you don't want hackers eavesdropping on your devices' chats.

Network Segmentation: Imagine if your house had different sections with separate locks. That's what network segmentation does for your digital world. It separates your IoT devices from your important stuff, making it harder for hackers to sneak in.

Keeping Informed

Stay up-to-date with these important things:

More Vulnerabilities: The more IoT devices out there, the more ways hackers can try to get in. So, be aware of the latest security issues and take steps to protect your devices.

Botnet Threats: Hackers use groups of compromised devices (botnets) to launch attacks. Make sure your devices have strong passwords and are updated to avoid becoming a part of these cyber armies.

Data Privacy: Be mindful of what data your IoT devices collect about you. Read their privacy policies, be cautious when granting permissions, and consider how your data is used.

Supply Chain Security: Buy your IoT devices from trusted sources. There have been cases where tampered devices ended up in unsuspecting hands.

Regulatory Measures: Keep an eye on government rules about IoT security. These rules can help protect you and your devices.

In our interconnected world, the security of IoT devices is essential. By following these steps and staying informed, you can enjoy the benefits of smart technology while keeping your digital life safe from prying eyes and cyber threats.

Augmented Reality in Education: Redefining Learning Through Interactive Experiences

In today's fast-paced digital age, the world of education is undergoing a remarkable transformation, thanks to Augmented Reality (AR). This cutting-edge technology is reshaping the way students learn, making education more captivating and effective than ever before. In this article, we'll explore how Augmented Reality is revolutionizing education by creating immersive, interactive learning experiences that engage students in a whole new way.

Augmented Reality: A Fresh Perspective on Learning

At its core, Augmented Reality adds a layer of digital content onto the real world. Students can access this digital layer through AR-enabled devices like smartphones, tablets, or AR headsets, turning traditional lessons into engaging adventures.

Firing Up Curiosity and Imagination

Imagine studying biology by taking a journey inside the human body. With AR, students can explore organs and systems in a dynamic, lifelike manner. This immersive experience sparks curiosity and ignites their imagination, making learning enjoyable and unforgettable.

Bringing Learning to Life

AR bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world applications. Students can conduct virtual experiments, design virtual structures, and perform chemistry experiments safely. This hands-on approach enhances practical skills and deepens understanding.

Personalized Learning for Every Student

AR tailors learning experiences to each student's unique needs and style. By adjusting content and difficulty levels, AR applications provide targeted support and challenges. This individualized approach boosts engagement, motivation, and academic performance.

Collaboration and Social Learning

AR encourages collaboration among students. Virtual group projects, interactive quizzes, and AR games promote teamwork and problem-solving skills. By exploring together, students learn from each other, creating a supportive learning environment.

Enhancing Accessibility and Inclusivity

AR makes education more accessible and inclusive. It provides additional visual and auditory cues for students with special needs, accommodating various learning styles. This ensures that every student can actively participate and benefit from the educational content.

AR and Language Learning

AR transforms language learning. Students can engage in virtual conversations, practice vocabulary in context, and explore foreign cultures in immersive ways. This interactive approach enhances language acquisition and fluency.

Proven Positive Impact

Numerous studies show AR's positive impact on learning outcomes. Students using AR technologies perform better academically and retain information longer. AR enhances spatial understanding and problem-solving skills, as reported by Stanford University.

Expanding Global Learning Opportunities

AR opens doors to global experiences. Students can virtually explore different cultures, landmarks, and historical sites. This global perspective fosters cultural understanding, broadens horizons, and promotes interconnectedness in our increasingly globalized world.

Changing Assessments for the Better

AR revolutionizes assessments. Instead of rote memorization, students engage in interactive, practical assessments. They solve AR-based puzzles, complete virtual experiments, and showcase their understanding through creative projects, preparing them for the demands of the modern workforce.

Augmented Reality is reshaping education, making it more engaging, inclusive, and effective. By embracing AR's capabilities, educators are sparking curiosity, promoting collaboration, and preparing students for the ever-changing world. As technology advances, it's crucial for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders to embrace Augmented Reality and integrate it into education, ensuring that future generations are well-equipped for success.

Sicurezza IoT (internet of things): proteggere le tecnologie emergenti

La sicurezza IoT (internet of things o Internet delle cose) è un settore della tecnologia dell’informazione che si concentra sulla protezione di dispositivi endpoint, reti e dati relativi a dispositivi connessi come frigoriferi intelligenti, telecamere di sicurezza a monitor o automobili e le loro applicazioni e i dati associati che possono essere compromessi.

Ma perché la sicurezza IoT è necessaria ed importante?

Leggi anche: IoT e sicurezza informatica: perchè conta

Dopotutto, le tecnologie “intelligenti” dovrebbero anche essere sicure, giusto? Se però alla nostra rete continuiamo ad aggiungere dispositivi più punti di ingresso andremo a creare e se solo uno di questi dispositivi presenta una vulnerabilità può essere la porta attraverso la quale entrerà un malintenzionato, mettendo i nostri dati a richio. Pensiamo poi a coa può succedere ad un’azienda o ad un’organizzazione.

Continua a leggere su Andrea Biraghi Blog

Iot: un caso di reverse engineering

Leggi su Andrea Biraghi - Internet of things: la tecnologia estende internet  ad oggetti e spazio

Tutto può essere hackerato: e Martin Hron, un ricercatore della società di sicurezza Avast, ne ha data la dimostrazione. Un dispositivo Iot può essere vulnerabile ad un attacco e in questo caso è una macchina intelligente per il caffè.

L'esperimento di Hron ha trasformato la "caffettiera" in una macchina ransomware, dimostrando che alcuni dispositivi possono anche essere riprogrammati per andare in tilt e richiedere un riscatto da utenti ignari. Nel suo blog il ricercatore parla del suo interessante esperimento The Fresh Smell of ransomed coffee: trasformare un oggetto di tutti i giorni -   modificando il firmware della macchina- in una macchina pericolosa per chiedere il riscatto.

Are you aware that you can be rich by merely finding bugs in Facebook applications? Do you know what the actual word google signifies?

Technology is constantly changing and evolving, ever wondered what was the first change that led to extensive changes happen.

Find all the answers to such Little Known technology Facts here!

Without further ado, let's dive into the article to further know about various technology facts that would make your geeky mind more educated.

Interesting Facts About Technology:

• Internet's age can be tracked.

You can easily determine the age of the internet easily. It also helps you to compare ur birth year with that of the internet. So cool Isn't it! https://howoldistheinter.net/

• Printer's ink can be saved by altering fonts

Different fonts are created to depict different situations. Fonts may differ in their size and technique depending upon the message such as educating the consumer, interview, decorations, etc.

The theory is based on the assumption that if you are using inkjet printers with an old cartridge you can actually save up to 15 percent by using a lighter font. This can come in handy if you are mass printing and are low in ink.

• Black Box is orange in color

Flight Data Recorder (Black Box) is not black. It is actually colored Orange. The heat insulator paint used for the black box has orange shade. It is made orange so as to make it easier...

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Src: Interesting Facts about Technology

Top Emerging IoT Trends that will Become Mainstream

The development in innovations like Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain technology, Cloud and Big Data are catering to the events in this advanced age. IoT is aiding in various sectors be it healthcare where it is providing world-class treatment with advanced tools and techniques and also to the development of smart cities where autonomous vehicles will eliminate car crashes.  Enterprises are adopting these trends to lead the digital revolution in their business.

• Artificial Intelligence

According to a survey by Gartner, 59 percent of organizations are still assembling data on Artificial Intelligence methodologies, whereas 31 percent have gained acceptance through test cases programs; the IT department is investing vigorously in AI. Regardless of these difficulties, it will be easy to accomplish great outcomes with AI in an extensive variety of IoT circumstances.

Keep Reading

How Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming App development

Internet of things (IoT) is a network of devices or objects which contain embedded technology that enables those devices and objects to communicate and interact with each other. The connectivity does not need any particular place, be it home or workplace. 

The devices include any smart gadgets or any other devices that are connected to the web or another device in some way and can be accessed and controlled from any location. IoT is becoming increasingly popular because of the tranquility of use and convenience it offers. There is a subsequent demand in apps (application) for such devices.

Following are some of the ways that IoT is impacting the mobile app development process:

Process initiation: The process initiation for IoT is not any set of pre-defined fundamentals. Most of the mobile app developers have no clear idea about where to start with the IoT, and because of its expensiveness, they don’t take any risk with any amount of money. But IoT technology is only a collection of several components that are combined to provide collective output.

Connectivity problem: One of the most essential things IoT needs is connectivity among the devices with the internet and also with other smart devices. IoT devices cannot be connected through the mobile cellular services as Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) or Bluetooth. The developers should resolve the connectivity issue with the ‘smart-things’. This refers that IoT applications require an upgraded integration gateway or standalone device as the modem.

Keep Reading

Adopt These Five Effective Solutions to Overcome IoT Security Challenges

Internet of Things (IoT) is the trending technology nowadays, and it is gearing up fast to connect any hardware devices to the smart devices.  The increasing threat to Internet of Things has led to an urge to find practical solutions which may address this issue and reduce the rate at which cyber actors are attacking IoT devices.

Here are Five solutions that can be adapted to increase the security of IoT devices: https://goo.gl/X8tZDy

IoT, Big Data, and Blockchain: A Combination to Achieve Maximum Business Efficiency

Big data, Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain are witnessing a radical growth in their functions and practices as technologies advance. Simultaneously, innovations in electronics and wireless communication technologies have contributed excessive benefits to these platforms.

These developments have resulted in various advancements in the number of suitable electronic devices in many industries as well as reduced costs in the manufacturing process of these devices.

The merging of big data, IoT, and blockchain into a single system provides effective and secure predictive analytics. On the other hand, this combination will provide more benefits in each of their functions and practices, by giving assistance and support to each other.

Read More: Maximum Business Efficiency by combining  IoT, Big Data, and Blockchain

Threats in IoT/M2M and How to face it?

The new found capability of the Internet of things enables enterprises to create value in many new ways. This world of internet connected things, where humans interact with machines and machines talking to other machinery devices (M2M) are here to stay. In reality, M2M is viewed as a subdivision of Internet of things (IoT).

IOT/M2M

It is an encompassing phenomenon that includes Machine-to-human communication (M2H), Radio frequency identification (RFI), Location-based services (LBS), Lab-on-a-chip sensor (LCS), augmented reality, robotics, and vehicular telematics. The adoption rate of IoT is increasing five times faster than the adoption of electricity and mobile devices.

IoT sector finally stepped into PKI (public key infrastructure) which is a mechanism for naming and distributing public encryption keys. PKI plays a crucial role in increasing IoT security. This enables the secured exchange of data across the internet. 

Using PKI, sending or receiving of data can be easily validated. PKI deployments have jumped to 23 percent since 2015, and about 49 percent of IoT firms are partially encrypting data. The rate of hiring percentage of IoT specialists has also increased.

For the protection of IoT users, Jerry Brown, the governor of California has signed first IoT security legislation into law which will be active by 2020. This legislation includes vital points like stopping unauthorized access, preventing unwanted modifications, and providing a unique password for every IoT devices. IoT devices not only share the information across the networks but also aid in financial transactions.

Complete Insights Here: How to Face Threats in IoT/M2M

Streamlining Smart Cities with Geographic Information System

Decades of unplanned urbanization has induced rampant pollution, sanitation hazards, inadequate housing, slums, and transport perils, Along with that, extreme weather patterns have become a global concern. It is about time data-driven adaptive urbanism—smart cities—gains momentum, building cities as models of a global change.

This model will pave the way for connected spatial data flow, enabling every resident in the city to comprehend the goals the community needs to accomplish. The residents can utilize applications to keep themselves informed about recreation, business, property, transportation, taxation, and more.

These smart cities function round-the-clock in a cloud environment and are entirely based on knowledge and innovation for best and sustainable civilian services. The definitions for smart cities vary depending on geographies, deployment, and scaling. However, in a data-driven environment Read More 

Interesting Read: At the Pinnacle of Smart City Aspirations

How Smart Cities Thrive by Focusing on Positive User Experience

In today’s age of smart cities, the new challenges of urban designing revolve around leveraging user experience to not only support urban activities but also inspire, educate, and empower the citizens. 

The user experience designs also need to foster a shift in values, transitioning the focus from convenience toward the notion of meaning.

For example, informing citizens about their smart city experience and creating awareness about choosing public transport can help create a more empathetic urban population. 

To assist individuals to derive value from their experience, it is also crucial to create spaces that are flexible enough to cater to various modes of use including entertainment as well as purely functional purposes. Read More

Protecting Nations- How to Secure a Nation as Smart Cities Grow

AI To Enhance Field Service Management and Boost Business Performance

Field Service Management is a type of software which helps an organization to simplify its field operations by automating them. FSM includes the detection of a field service need, scheduling and making the best use of the technicians on the field, thanks to Artificial Intelligence.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Augmented Reality (AR) are revolutionizing all the industries and field services is not left behind. AI in collaboration with technologies like AR and IoT will provide better device maintenance, repair, service, and other facilities as well.

•    Supported By Chatbots

Chatbots have simplified and have made communication more effective thereby providing a seamless experience to its customers. AI-powered chatbots are smart as they work according to the need of the customers; they comprehend easily if a client requires additional information or whether they require assistance in resolving any issue. Smart algorithms power chatbots and determine all necessary information before dispatching a technician.

•    Informed Scheduling

AI sensors deployed on machines emits alerts regarding the state of the machinery which informs the stakeholders to take necessary actions. Informed scheduling ensures that all the field services take place timely and making it cost-effective for organizations. The field service enables the workforce to work where it is needed, satisfying the customers and enriching the job of the workforce. 

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