Introduction: Are wearables safe? Wearable devices such as smartwatches, fitness tracking bands, smart glasses, and hands-free headsets have become easier to sync with smartphones and different devices and applications, allowing users to feel more organized, connected, and up-to-date.
However, increasing wearables’ personal information poses a significant security risk. Wearable devices may include personal information such as location, health metrics, and credit card information.
This kind of information is potentially dangerous when stored on wearable technology because the more machines and apps a user syncs with it, the less secure your data is, and the more vulnerable it is to cybercriminals.
The more accessible the data is. Most of these technology uses non-secure wireless connectivity, such as Bluetooth or Near Field Communication (NFC). Each type of wireless connection serves as a different entry point into the user’s private life.
Are wearables safe?
Wearables, such as smartwatches and other portable devices, have recently gained immense popularity. These devices offer various functionalities, including fitness monitoring, heart rate tracking, sleep analysis, and communication features.
While wearables have undoubtedly revolutionized how we interact with technology, concerns about their safety have also been raised. With advances in wearable technology in all kinds of industries, companies have yet to consider themselves in the technology business before facing new risks they must be prepared for.
Being aware of these risks and implementing strategies to help defend against them can help businesses focus on the growth opportunities enabled by connected technologies.
In this article, I will examine the safety aspects of wearables and provide an overview of the potential risks involved.
Firstly, it is essential to note that wearables, like any other electronic device, undergo rigorous testing and certification processes before they are released to the market. This ensures that they meet safety standards and comply with regulations.
Manufacturers invest significant resources in ensuring the quality and safety of their products. Additionally, wearables are designed to be worn on the body for extended periods, and therefore, they are subject to strict guidelines to minimize potential health risks.
One of the primary concerns with wearables is the potential for radiation exposure. Wearables typically use wireless technologies such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to connect and communicate with other devices. However, these devices’ radiofrequency (RF) emissions are generally considered within the safe limits established by regulatory bodies.
Extensive research has been conducted to assess the potential health effects of RF radiation, and the current scientific consensus suggests that the exposure levels from wearables are not significant enough to cause harm.
Another concern is the privacy and security of the data collected by wearables. These devices gather a wealth of personal information, including health data, activity levels, and location.
Manufacturers are responsible for implementing robust security measures to defend this sensitive information from unauthorized access or data breaches. Encryption, secure data transfer protocols, and user authentication mechanisms are techniques to ensure data privacy.
Users can also take precautions such as using strong passwords and keeping their devices updated with the latest firmware updates to mitigate potential security risks.
The physical safety of wearables is another aspect to consider. Since these devices are worn on the body, skin irritation or allergic reactions are at risk, particularly for individuals with sensitive skin.
Manufacturers address this concern by using hypoallergenic materials and designing wearables with ergonomic considerations. However, users should monitor their skin’s reaction and discontinue use if discomfort or adverse effects occur.
Additionally, prolonged use of wearables, particularly for tracking fitness activities, may lead to overexertion or reliance on the data provided. It is important to remember that wearables provide information, but they should not replace professional medical advice or one’s judgment.
Users should listen to their bodies and avoid pushing themselves beyond their physical limits solely based on the data provided by the wearable device.
What are the wearables technology risks?
The risks of wearable technology fall into three main categories:
- Cyber threats. If data transmitted by wearables is not adequately secured, companies can face class action lawsuits, expensive fines, and damage to their prestige.
- Risks of physical injury. Malfunctioning devices can cause wearers or patients injury, illness, and death. Device manufacturers may face product liability lawsuits.
- Risks of technology errors and omissions. Companies can be held liable for economic losses caused by the defeat of a device to function as intended.
Protect against cyber threats.
First and foremost, wearable devices must be engineered with data security in mind. Manufacturers have the burden of proof to demonstrate that data detected by their device was stored correctly. Consider the following strategies to help ensure adequate data protection:
- Custom security level settings for the user;
- Remote erase feature;
- Bluetooth encryption;
- Encrypt essential data elements such as user IDs, passwords, and PINs;
- Save data with multiple OSs in the cloud.
Avoid risks of physical injury.
Wearable plants must understand and mitigate the risk of a product liability lawsuit that could be filed due to their device failing. Consider these strategies to help protect against the risks of physical injury:
- conducting extensive testing;
- Perform robust risk analysis;
- plan for mitigation;
- assess awareness of and adherence to critical standards;
- increased cybersecurity;
- Develop apparent safety and usage instructions.
Avoid the dangers of technology errors and omissions.
For specific financial losses caused by the failure of a device to function as intended, manufacturers may be subject to liability for technology errors and omissions.
In addition to the strategies outlined above for the risk of physical injury (which may also be helpful for this category), companies should review the following customer contract provisions to manage this exposure:
- Limitation of Liability;
- loss caps;
- Disclaimer/Limitation of Warranty;
- integration;
- Contract transfer of risk and defense/indemnification provisions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wearables have become an integral part of many people’s lives, offering a range of benefits and functionalities. While concerns about their safety exist, manufacturers adhere to rigorous safety standards, and the current scientific evidence suggests that wearables pose minimal risks to users.
However, individuals must be mindful of their health and well-being, use wearables responsibly, and seek professional advice. By doing so, one can make the most of these innovative devices while ensuring their safety and privacy.
Also read: Are wearables medical devices?; What are wearables in healthcare?; Wearable for anxiety