Review the “Internet of Things: Convenience vs. Privacy and Secrecy” resource. Then create an initial post in which you consider the following questions:
As internet of things (IoT) devices become more widely adopted, to what extent are you willing to sacrifice your privacy for convenience?
Given your stance on privacy, what effect does the pervasiveness of IoT have on your choices as a consumer?
In your response posts, imagine that you are developing a new IoT device for a company. What aspects of privacy would influence your design based on the points your peers made in their initial posts?
Note: Privacy can be a highly personal topic. In your posts, remember to maintain professionalism. Focus on the topic and not on the person.
To complete this assignment, review the Discussion Rubric.
RESPONSE ONE
As IoT devices become more integrated into daily life, I think there’s a fine line between convenience and privacy. Sometimes, I am willing to sacrifice privacy depending on the type of data that is being collected. For example, I have a Google Nest thermostat in my home that helps make my household more energy-efficient. I know it collects and uses data to provide smart home functionality such as personalized schedules, preferred temperature settings, and insights to improve their products or troubleshoot potential issues with my heating or air conditioning. However, I have yet to jump on the smart watch bandwagon. Specifically, it’s because I don’t want my health information being collected by anything other than my doctor. Again, it’s about prioritizing what I actually need, and I have my phone; I don’t need a second one on my wrist!
I think this perspective greatly affects my choices as a consumer. I’m definitely not as gullible as some and I research devices prior to purchasing and prioritize companies with transparent privacy policies and strong security measures. While influencers can be enticing, I focus on tools that strike a balance between functionality and respecting my privacy. Lately, I’ve adopted a more minimalistic approach, avoiding devices that prioritize convenience at the expense of privacy. This not only saves me money but also reduces the amount of personal information I share, offering me a greater peace of mind.
RESPONSE TWO
The Internet of Things (IoT) offers incredible convenience, connecting everyday devices to make our lives more seamless. However, this convenience often comes at the expense of privacy. Personally, I believe there must be a balance. While I am willing to share certain non-sensitive information to enjoy the benefits of IoT, I draw the line when it comes to data that could compromise my security or be misused, such as financial details or personal habits that could lead to targeted surveillance. Trust in a company’s data security measures heavily influences my willingness to adopt IoT devices.
As a consumer, my stance on privacy makes me more cautious in choosing IoT devices. I prioritize products from companies that are transparent about data collection and offer robust security features, such as encryption and regular updates. I also consider whether the convenience provided outweighs potential risks. For example, I might opt for a smart thermostat but avoid a voice assistant if it requires constant listening. Ultimately, my decisions are shaped by a desire to enjoy IoT benefits while maintaining control over my personal information.