Video verification is much safer than classic verification; it allows for easier detection of potential fraud. Customers are able to complete all tasks remotely from their homes or places of employment, eliminating the need for them to physically visit the organization. Video verification provides a safe way for businesses to verify their customer remotely using robust digital tools.

This post takes a deeper look at the concept of video verification online and how digital identity verification services are using this technology to protect businesses and organizations.

What is Video Verification?

Video verification is a process that involves recording a video of yourself answering a set of questions to verify your identity. Video verification allows you to save valuable time, as the whole process only takes a few minutes and can yield almost instant results. This process is usually done using digital identity verification services that use advanced algorithms and machine learning to ensure that the video is genuine and that the person in the video is who they say they are. Video verification has become an important aspect of online identity verification, especially in industries where security and trust are paramount, such as finance, healthcare, and e-commerce.

How Does Video Verification Work?

Businesses use video verification in a variety of ways in their KYC procedures. The two most common methods include:

Method 1: KYC Video Interview

The first method is a KYC (Know Your Customer) verification video interview. A video verification interview is a face-to-face interview between a customer and a KYC agent via video call. Video interviews have the potential to reduce KYC risk effectively. However, because these interviews are conducted by live agents, a company must hire a team large enough to handle the volume and demand in order to successfully incorporate them into the KYC process. Similarly, video chat may result in significant, unanticipated friction for users. A KYC programme that uses video interviews can be hard to scale, especially for businesses with smaller teams, for these reasons.

Method 2: Automatic Video Recording

There is another method that many businesses use to automatically record video and audio during the registration process. Some businesses may choose to video the entire session, while other businesses may choose to record video only at key moments in the registration process, such as uploading documents or verifying selfies. During the manual, this analysis is carried out either algorithmically or by a real agent.

Who Needs Online Video Verification?

The types of entities that are required to perform video KYC are as follows:

1. Credit institutions
2. Financial service providers
3. Electronic money institution
4. Electronic money agents
5. Investment management companies
6. Cryptocurrency Service Providers

How Do Businesses Benefit From Online Video ID Verification?

The process of video KYC digital verification may be a complex process, but it still provides businesses with a remote and secure way to connect with users. KYC video verification solutions can maintain high conversion rates, protect against fraud, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements

KYC/AML Compliance

KYC/AML compliance is crucial for regulated industries like banking, as they must comply with local anti-money laundering laws to prevent money laundering, terrorist financing, and regulatory sanctions in a cost-effective manner. By adhering to these laws, banks can safeguard their customers, prevent financial crimes, and maintain the trust of regulatory bodies.

Fraud Protection

Fraud is a persistent challenge for online businesses in a range of industries, including e-commerce, and car-sharing. Often with malicious intent, fraudsters gain unauthorized access to these services by using fake documents and stolen identities. As a result, an increasing number of businesses are turning to video identification solutions for greater assurance that only legitimate and authorized customers are able to use their services.

Conversion Rate

Conversion rate is a critical aspect for businesses, and losing customers during the onboarding process can be a major concern. However, KYC video verification provides a more user-friendly approach. This allows businesses to strategically select users they want to verify through video, based on their risk profile and transaction volume, minimizing the risk of losing potential customers.

Conclusion

To summarize, video verification is a useful tool for businesses to accurately detect and prevent various forms of fraudulent activity during the registration process. Regulations regarding video KYC verification may differ depending on the country, and there are some regions where video KYC is mandated or officially allowed. Businesses can choose which users to have video verified based on their risk profile and transaction volume, allowing them to maximize the number of passes or comply with legal requirements.

The post Securing the Future: The Role of Digital Video Verification in Today’s World appeared first on Datafloq.

Meanwhile, an independent study by SAM Seamless Network claims that more than a billion IoT devices were hacked last year. Given that there are roughly 15 billion connected products worldwide, it means every fifteenth device – from Bluetooth-enabled fitness trackers to smart coffee makers and warehouse robots – fell victim to a cyberattack, compromising user data, becoming part of an orchestrated botnet, or simply shutting down.

In this article, I'll explain why ensuring end-to-end security is an essential step in the IoT software development process and how you could create a hack-proof IoT solution.

What You Need to Know About IoT Security (or Lack Thereof)

Before we dive into the complex world of technologies improving the Internet of Things security, here are some IoT security stats and notable accidents for your consideration:

• In 2010, an Iranian nuclear plant in Natanz overlooked a cyberattack exploiting a vulnerability in a Windows host machine. Using a legitimately looking Realtek driver, the hackers took over the programmable logic controllers (PLCs) to damage over 1,000 uranium enrichment centrifuges. [source: Embedded.com]
• In 2016, an army of IoT devices infected with the Mirai malware launched a series of successful distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, causing temporary inaccessibility of Twitter, Netflix, Airbnb, Reddit, and other high-profile websites. [source: Cloudflare]
• In 2021, Verkada, a building security vendor, suffered an IoT security breach involving 150,000 surveillance cameras. The attack, which targeted a Jenkins server used by Verkada's customer support team, resulted in the release of videos and images from connected cameras installed at hospitals, police stations, and even offices of the world's leading companies like Nissan and Tesla. [source: Security Boulevard]

As you can see, no company, large or small, can afford to take IoT security lightly. Sometimes the culprit could be hard-coded device passwords. In other instances, cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities in embedded systems or other applications comprising an IoT infrastructure. And in some cases, hacks cannot be executed without a malicious insider.

To better understand the root causes of the numerous Internet of Things security challenges, let's define IoT security and the processes it encompasses.

What Is the Internet of Things Security?

Due to the Internet of Things‘ complex, multi-layered nature, IoT security encompasses an array of processes and best practices that help protect cyber-physical systems at all levels – from low-level software interfacing hardware components to end-user apps.

In case you need to refresh your knowledge about what the Internet of Things is and what components constitute a cyber-physical system, check out this IoT product development guide and my recent article about IoT architecture design.

The Internet of Things security refers to the safeguards and protective measures that help secure connected devices in IoT deployments.

As IoT devices can range from smart home solutions like thermostats and connected speakers to industrial equipment and self-driving vehicles, the Internet of Things security requirements may differ based on industry, use cases, and target audience.

Some universally applicable best practices for preventing IoT security problems include:

• Encrypting data in transit and at rest, which makes it unreadable to unauthorized users
• Preventing unauthorized access to devices and the Internet of Things network by enforcing strong passwords and other user authorization methods, such as one-time SMS passwords and multi-factor authentication
• Implementing firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and secure communication protocols to protect the network that IoT devices are connected to
• Keeping the embedded software that gives voice to IoT devices up to date and timely fixing its security vulnerabilities
• Incorporating security measures in the design and development stage of IoT devices, rather than as an afterthought

While it's the prerogative of IoT solution vendors to follow these Internet of Things security best practices, it's also important to remember that IoT security is a shared responsibility. Unless end users take the necessary precautions like changing default passwords and installing software updates issued by the gadget's manufacturer, mitigating IoT security risks will always be a losing game.

Why Is IoT Security Often Compromised?

The root causes of IoT security vulnerabilities can be diverse, often resulting from the unique characteristics and challenges of the Internet of Things ecosystem.

Since IoT solutions operate at multiple levels, including operating systems, low-level software, cloud infrastructure, data and networking protocols, end-user apps, and hardware, IoT security threats can stem from any of these functional components.

On top of that, many IoT solutions are designed to be small, cheap, and energy efficient, often with limited processing power, which can make it difficult to implement traditional security measures.

And the fact that half of all IoT products originate in startups, who normally operate on a shoestring and strive to reduce their time to market to beat the competition, only complicates the matter.

Here are several factors that compromise security in IoT:

• Insecure design and manufacturing. Unless you're a large enterprise with a solid IT budget, you're likely to prioritize functionality, cost-effectiveness, and speed-to-market in the Internet of Things projects at the expense of IoT device security. This happens because thorough requirements analysis, quality control, and extensive IoT security testing come with a hefty price tag. And yes, did I mention IoT projects are often executed by multiple teams, which may operate in different countries? For example, can you vouch that your hardware manufacturer from China performs firmware flashing duly? So, add multi-vendor project management hours to the IoT cost estimate. Now you understand why most companies simply go with the flow, ignoring IoT security risks.
• Lack of updates and patch management. Frequently, IoT devices do not receive regular firmware updates to patch vulnerabilities – either because manufacturers stop supporting these devices or because they are difficult to update due to design constraints. This leaves cyber-physical systems exposed to known security exploits.
• Use of default or weak credentials. Many IoT devices come with default user names and passwords that may be publicly available or easy to guess. If these credentials are not changed by the end user, it can provide an easy way for attackers to gain access to the IoT solution.
• Lack of data encryption. Some IoT devices transmit or store data without proper encryption, leaving sensitive information exposed to potential attackers.
• Poor network security practices. IoT devices are often connected to networks without adequate security measures in place, such as the use of the Secure Socket Layer (SSL) and Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocols, multi-factor user authentication, and intrusion detection mechanisms. As a result, hackers can pinpoint compromised devices and leverage them to attack other IoT solutions on the network.
• Lack of standardization. The Internet of Things ecosystem is diverse and lacks a unified set of IoT security standards. This means that vendors adhere to different security best practices, which may be region or industry-specific or dictated solely by the gadget's intended use cases and design peculiarities. For instance, smart bulb manufacturers' key priority is to interface their products with popular home automation solutions. Therefore, they might take IoT security lightly, failing to implement a smoother firmware update mechanism or using less effective encryption protocols.

Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort across the Internet of Things landscape – from device manufacturers to regulatory bodies and end users. Yet, almost a quarter of a century since the Internet of Things term was coined, IoT security remains as elusive as ever.

As an IoT startup, what can you possibly do to foresee the Internet of Things security issues and take appropriate measures early in the development process?

The answer largely lies in reliable IoT communication technologies.

Communication Technologies at the Forefront of IoT Security

The lion's share of IoT security problems can be eliminated by implementing secure data exchange and networking protocols.

A few months ago, I published a detailed IoT communication protocol comparison, zooming in on commonly used data and network communication technologies, their benefits, and use cases. If you have ten minutes to spare, I recommend you read the blog post in full.

In the meantime, I'd briefly explain what makes connectivity technologies the cornerstone of IoT security:

• IoT protocols encrypt data that travels between endpoint devices and the central hub and cloud servers, making it unreadable to third parties
• Secure wired and wireless connectivity technologies ensure data integrity, meaning it cannot be tampered with during transmission
• Communication protocols enforce user authentication through login and password, pre-shared keys, network keys, and tokens
• Some protocols help exercise role-based access control, specifying permissions for certain user and device groups
• Finally, connectivity technologies facilitate secure rollouts and installation of firmware updates, as well as effective device management, boosting security in IoT deployments

Rundown of IoT Protocols and Their Security Features

Here's a quick summary of the connectivity technologies described in the source article and their impact on IoT security:

• Transport Layer Security (TLS) secures communications between devices and servers. TLS provides end-to-end encryption, making it difficult for attackers to intercept and decipher data.
• Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) also helps IoT devices securely communicate with servers. However, SSL has been largely replaced by TLS due to some recently uncovered security vulnerabilities.
• Lightweight M2M (LwM2M) is used for device management in IoT systems. Besides ensuring secure device-server communication, LwM2M supports other features, such as firmware updates and remote management.
• Datagram Transport Layer Security (DTLS) protects data transmission in real-time applications, such as video streaming or voice over IP (VoIP). DTLS provides end-to-end encryption and is designed to handle delays and packet loss.
• Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) is used for lightweight messaging in IoT systems. MQTT provides a publish/subscribe model for message exchange and supports TLS encryption for secure communication.

You may also opt for solution-specific communication technology, such as Zigbee and Z-Wave in home automation. While both technologies are commonly used in smart homes, there are some profound differences between them.

Zigbee is an open standard protocol that supports multiple vendors and is designed for low-power, low-bandwidth devices in smart home systems, such as lighting and temperature control. It operates on the IEEE 802.15.4 standard and uses the 2.4 GHz frequency band, which can cause interference with other wireless devices that use the same band. Zigbee includes security features such as encryption and authentication.

Z-Wave, on the other hand, is a proprietary protocol developed by Silicon Labs and is commonly used for security systems, such as door locks and motion sensors. It operates on the 908 MHz frequency band, which is less crowded than the 2.4 GHz band used by Zigbee, resulting in less interference. Z-Wave devices are also known for their longer data transmission range compared to Zigbee devices. Z-Wave helps encrypt data and supports strong authentication mechanisms.

Additionally, there are industry-specific protocols that boost IoT security in specific technology systems, such as healthcare software solutions.

Some of the commonly used IoT security protocols in medical settings include:

• Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM), a protocol used for exchanging medical images and information between devices and systems. DICOM includes security features such as encryption and authentication.
• Health Level 7 (HL7), a set of standards for exchanging clinical and administrative healthcare information between connected devices and systems. HL7 comes in two versions: HL7v2 and HL7v3. It's worth mentioning that neither HL7v2 nor HL7v3 are encrypted by default, but they can be wrapped into an encrypted message.
• Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR), a newer standard for healthcare information exchange that tends to be more flexible and easier to implement than HL7 due to its RESTful API nature.

I'd like to wrap up this section by reminding you that the choice of connectivity technologies for your project depends on the specifics of your IoT system and its security requirements. And often you'll have to use several technologies at once to meet these needs.

How to Tackle IoT Security Challenges During Product Design

Wondering how your company could anticipate and mitigate IoT security challenges throughout the development process? Let's take a look at this fictional smart HVAC solution case study from Expanice!

To sum up everything we've learned so far, I'd like to walk you through a fictional case study and explain how I would address IoT security risks at different stages of the Internet of Things product development process.

So, let's build a smart HVAC system for warehouse facilities, which would use connected thermostats, humidity and temperature sensors, gateways, and HVAC units!

It's an example of a cyber-physical system that requires end-to-end IoT security: if compromised, the connected devices will serve as an entry point to a supply chain company's entire IT infrastructure and all the sensitive information stored in it, including customer data.

When it comes to the system's connectivity technology stack, I'd opt for:

• TLS or DTLS for securing communications between devices and the cloud platform
• LwM2M for device management, including firmware updates and remote control
• MQTT for data exchange between devices and the cloud platform

These specific IoT security protocols were chosen because they provide end-to-end encryption, protect communication between devices and servers, and support real-time applications such as video streaming or voice over IP (VoIP).

As for the cloud infrastructure, I recommend choosing:

• AWS IoT Core for device management and data processing
• AWS Lambda for real-time data processing and analysis
• Amazon Kinesis for secure data streaming
• And Amazon S3 for secure data storage and retrieval

By using these security protocols and AWS services, we'll protect the HVAC system from IoT security threats like malware infections, data breaches, and denial-of-service attacks.

Additionally, it would be wise to implement strong authentication and access control mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access to the system. This can include multi-factor authentication, role-based access control, and encryption of sensitive data. And it won't hurt if we conduct regular IoT security testing, including audits and vulnerability assessments, to timely spot and close the loopholes.

Another IoT security issue that needs your attention is the firmware code – and the security vulnerabilities it might contain.

Firmware is low-level software that runs on IoT devices. It controls the device's hardware, enables its business logic, and supports data exchange.

You can secure firmware by following secure coding practices. This includes using secure coding techniques, such as code review and static analysis, to identify potential vulnerabilities in the code. It also involves secure coding standards, such as SEI CERT C Coding Standard, to ensure that the code is written in a way that is resistant to common security vulnerabilities. And if you're planning to use open-source or third-party libraries in IoT solution development, you must check them for documented vulnerabilities, too.

It is also essential to implement secure boot and firmware update mechanisms. Secure boot is a process that ensures that the device boots only authorized firmware, preventing malicious code from infiltrating IoT systems. Firmware update mechanisms allow for secure and authenticated updates to the device's firmware, ensuring that the device is always running the latest firmware containing the necessary security patches.

Finally, it is important to monitor firmware code for potential security threats. This includes using intrusion detection systems and monitoring tools to identify and respond to potential IoT security incidents.

Let's summarize.

To solve the Internet of Things security issues during the HVAC system design process, we must do the following:

• Select a technology stack that meets the system's functional and non-functional requirements
• Use code review and static analysis tools, such as CodeSonar, Klocwork, and Coverity, to identify potential security vulnerabilities in the code
• Adhere to secure coding standards, such as the SEI CERT C Coding Standard, to ensure our code is resistant to most security threats
• Implement secure boot and firmware update mechanisms, such as U-Boot, CBoot, and OpenWrt, to validate that the connected HVAC system only uploads authorized firmware
• Leverage intrusion detection systems and monitoring tools, such as Nagios and Zabbix, to monitor firmware code for potential security threats
• Identify and address security issues in the firmware code using tools like Nessus, OpenVAS, and Nmap
• Tap into vulnerability scanners, such as OWASP Dependency-Check and Retire.js, to detect known vulnerabilities in any open-source or third-party libraries used in the firmware, web app, and mobile application code

Closing Thoughts

From overlooking security vulnerabilities in popular software development frameworks and libraries to using inappropriate connectivity tech stack, there are many ways your IoT project could go awry, putting sensitive data at risk and damaging your brand beyond repair.

The good news is, most IoT security challenges could be mitigated – provided you follow the Internet of Things security best practices from day one.

This story was originally published here.

The post IoT Security Challenges & How to Address Them in the Development Process appeared first on Datafloq.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Understanding the Synergy between Coding and Designing

Acquiring the Fundamentals

Learning HTML and CSS

Exploring JavaScript and Interaction Design

Embracing Design Principles in Coding

Applying Color Theory and Typography

Implementing Responsive Design Techniques

Leveraging Coding Skills for Designing

Prototyping with HTML/CSS

Creating Interactive UI Elements with JavaScript

Collaboration and Communication

Bridging the Gap between Designers and Developers

Tools for Efficient Collaboration

Staying Updated and Expanding Skills

Following Industry Trends

Continuous Learning and Experimentation

Conclusion

FAQs

1. Introduction

Combining coding and designing offers numerous advantages in today's digital landscape. By possessing both skill sets, professionals can bridge the gap between design aesthetics and functional implementation, resulting in exceptional user experiences. In this article, we will delve into the ways in which you can effectively combine coding and designing to create impactful digital products.

2. Understanding the Synergy between Coding and Designing

Coding and designing complement each other, creating a powerful synergy that elevates the overall quality of digital products. Designing brings visual appeal, usability, and user-centricity to the forefront, while coding provides the necessary technical skills to bring those designs to life. Understanding the interplay between these two disciplines is crucial for successful integration. You can use realistic brushes for procreate to design visuals and quality images.

3. Acquiring the Fundamentals

To combine coding and designing, it is essential to acquire a strong foundation in both fields. Begin by learning HTML and CSS, which are the building blocks of web development. HTML provides the structure, while CSS adds style and design elements to web pages. Additionally, explore JavaScript and its applications in interaction design, as it allows for dynamic and engaging user experiences.

4. Embracing Design Principles in Coding

Incorporating design principles into coding is essential to create visually appealing and user-friendly digital products. Familiarize yourself with color theory and typography to make informed design choices. Implement responsive design techniques to ensure that your creations adapt seamlessly across various devices and screen sizes.

5. Leveraging Coding Skills for Designing

Coding skills can greatly enhance the design process. Prototyping with HTML/CSS allows you to quickly visualize your design concepts and gather feedback. Furthermore, by using JavaScript, you can create interactive user interface elements that provide an immersive experience for your users.

6. Collaboration and Communication

Effective collaboration and communication between designers and developers are key to successful outcomes. Bridge the gap between these two disciplines by fostering open lines of communication, understanding each other's constraints and requirements, and actively involving both parties throughout the design and development process. Utilize collaboration tools to streamline workflows and ensure efficient teamwork.

7. Staying Updated and Expanding Skills

Staying Updated and Expanding Skills

In the ever-evolving world of coding and designing, it is crucial to stay updated with the latest industry trends and continuously expand your skills. By keeping up with advancements and best practices, you can ensure that your work remains relevant and competitive. Here are two important aspects to consider for staying ahead of the curve.

7.1 Following Industry Trends

The field of coding and designing is dynamic, with new trends emerging regularly. It is essential to stay informed about the latest developments, design patterns, and technological advancements. Follow influential blogs, online publications, and industry experts to gain insights into the current trends shaping the industry. Engage in online communities, forums, and social media groups dedicated to coding and designing to participate in discussions and exchange knowledge with fellow professionals.

Attending conferences, webinars, and workshops can also be valuable for staying updated. These events often feature industry leaders and experts who share their experiences and insights. Networking with peers and attending industry-specific events can open doors to new opportunities and foster professional growth.

7.2 Continuous Learning and Experimentation

Learning should be a lifelong journey, especially in the rapidly evolving domains of coding and designing. Take the initiative to explore new tools, techniques, and frameworks to enhance your skill set. Online learning platforms, such as tutorials, video courses, and interactive coding exercises, offer convenient ways to acquire new knowledge and refine existing skills.

Experimentation is also vital for personal growth. Set aside time for personal projects that allow you to push boundaries, try new approaches, and implement innovative ideas. Building a portfolio of diverse projects demonstrates your adaptability and creativity, making you more marketable in the industry.

Collaborating with other professionals can be a great learning experience. Engage in coding and design communities, participate in hackathons, or contribute to open-source projects. Collaborative endeavors provide opportunities to learn from others, gain valuable feedback, and broaden your perspectives.

By staying updated with industry trends and engaging in continuous learning and experimentation, you can position yourself as a competent and adaptable professional in the realm of coding and designing.

8. Conclusion

Combining coding and designing can unlock a world of possibilities in creating exceptional digital experiences. By understanding the synergy between these two disciplines, acquiring the necessary fundamentals, and embracing collaboration, you can seamlessly integrate coding and designing to produce visually stunning and user-friendly products. Remember to stay updated with industry trends, continuously expand your skills, and never stop learning. With dedication and practice, you can become a proficient coder and designer capable of crafting remarkable digital experiences.

9. FAQs

1. Can I become a proficient coder and designer without a formal education?

Absolutely! While formal education can provide a solid foundation, it is not the only path to success. Many professionals have acquired coding and designing skills through self-learning, online courses, and practical experience. The key is dedication, practice, and a willingness to continuously learn and improve.

2. Which coding languages should I focus on as a designer?

HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are essential languages for designers. HTML provides the structure, CSS handles the visual styling, and JavaScript enables interactive elements and functionality. Familiarity with these languages will allow you to bring your design concepts to life.

3. How can I improve collaboration between designers and developers?

Clear and open communication is the foundation of effective collaboration. Ensure that both designers and developers are involved in the project from the early stages. Encourage regular meetings, provide detailed design specifications, and promote a collaborative and respectful working environment. Using collaboration tools like project management software and design handoff platforms can also facilitate smoother workflows.

4. How can I keep up with industry trends in coding and designing?

Stay active in online communities and forums dedicated to

The post How to Combine Coding and Designing: A Comprehensive Guide appeared first on Datafloq.

Gartner predicts that by 2025, 50% of the global population will be exposed to at least one program involving the Internet of Behaviors, either from the government or a commercial organization.

By now, companies operating in different sectors turn to IoT consulting firms to incorporate this technology into their workflows. And Globe Newswire predicts the Internet of Behaviors market to reach $811 billion by 2032, growing from $386 billion in 2022.

In this article, you will find the Internet of Behaviors definition, the technologies it involves, and an explanation of how it benefits different sectors and which challenges to expect during its implementation.

What is the Internet of Behaviors (IoB), and how can it support your business?

Internet of Behaviors platforms aggregate data from different sources, such as IoT sensors, social media, online stores, etc. This data is analyzed in light of behavioral psychology to discover behavior patterns. Companies can use those to influence consumer behavior, create new products, and craft more effective marketing campaigns.

Simply put, the Internet of Behaviors field aims to understand when, why, and how people perform a certain task. Let's draw a parallel with eCommerce. Essentially, IoB does what web analytics tools like Google Analytics, Ahrefs, and Lucky Orange do – i.e., figure out what website pages users visit, how long they stay on a particular page, and how they interact with its content.

Only the Internet of Behaviors takes the concept even further by gathering and processing data from more sources, such as movement sensors mounted to store shelves, smart CCTV cameras scattered around a shopping mall, or fitness trackers your potential customers wear on a morning run.

You might be wondering, given that the Internet of Behaviors uses data from different sources, whether it is identical to the Internet of Things (IoT) concept and, if not, what it does differently.

IoT can be regarded as the foundation for IoB as IoT sensors gather data that the Internet of Behaviors enriches and processes further.

Source

Also, be careful not to confuse the Internet of Behaviors with another concept with the same abbreviation – the Internet of Bodies. You can learn more about this concept on our blog.

Technologies Driving the Internet of Behaviors

The Internet of Behaviors combines different technologies, like the above-mentioned IoT, as well as AI, data analytics, and cloud computing, with behavioral science.

The Internet of Things (IoT)

McKinsey defines the Internet of Things as a network of physical objects containing sensors and actuators. They communicate with each other and/or a central processing unit, as well as cloud-based or on-premises servers, via a wired or wireless connection, allowing the central hub to monitor and even control objects within an IoT deployment.

IoT devices capture and analyze user data, and present it in a convenient format.

Source

So, IoT supplies a large portion of consumer data, while IoB adds other types of data, such as geo-tagging, purchase transactions, social media activities, and more, and uses AI and data analytics to interpret and structure this information. Then the Internet of Behaviors relies on behavioral science and, again, artificial intelligence, to grasp how users act. Finally, it deploys this knowledge to sway user behavior in the desired direction.

Source

Artificial intelligence (AI)

AI refers to smart algorithms that can reason like humans, make decisions, and perform activities that are believed to require a human level of intelligence.

The Internet of Behaviors uses AI to spot and analyze different behavioral patterns in consumer data. For instance, in a recent study, researchers experimented with IoB and explainable AI to understand electrical power consumption patterns among users and deploy this information to bring power utilization down. This system allowed researchers to decrease energy consumption by 522.2 kW over a period of 200 hours.

Big data analytics

This technology is essential if you want to work with large volumes of structured, semi-structured, unstructured, and otherwise complex data, where the traditional approaches to data handling wouldn't suffice.

IoT, which supplies data to the Internet of Behaviors platforms, is a major source of big data. So, if you want to work with IoT, you will need big data analytics for efficient data management. These tools also include dashboards and other data visualization solutions presenting information in a visually appealing and comprehensible format.

The Internet of Behaviors data analysis can be integrated into enterprise software, such as ERP or CRM.

Cloud computing

Cloud computing means on-demand access to computing resources through the Internet. This includes hardware resources, such as servers and data storage units, and software assets, like apps, development tools, etc. All these are hosted remotely and managed by a cloud service provider.

Cloud computing allows companies to access resources with pay-as-you-go pricing models without the need to purchase and locally install all the infrastructure. This drastically minimizes the initial investment and allows companies to scale without worrying about purchasing more equipment. For more information on this topic, check out this article on cloud computing in healthcare.

When building the Internet of Behavior platforms, companies will need large data storage units, powerful analytical capabilities, and more. It would be rather expensive to install and maintain such infrastructure locally. Using cloud computing will give you access to virtual resources and allow you to pay based on usage.

Behavioral science

Behavioral science is a discipline that studies human behavior through experimentation and observation. It aims to explain why people act in a certain way.

Within the context of the Internet of Behaviors, this field of study helps businesses understand why people buy certain products, how they interact with websites, and more. Behavioral science considers multiple factors, such as motivation, habits, social influence, etc., to figure out the rationale behind human actions.

Benefits of Implementing the Internet of Behaviors

The Internet of Behaviors helps companies make sense of large quantities of data gathered from different sources and monetize it or use it to improve operations, services, and products.

Here is what businesses can get from deploying the Internet of Behaviors:

• Gain access to consumers' buying behavior across different platforms, not limited by their online store
• Understand how customers interact with their devices (e.g., laptops, smartphones, etc.) to offer a better shopping experience
• Test different marketing campaigns to see how users engage with them
• Monitor the sales team's performance and suggest modifications to achieve higher conversion rates
• Create a better user experience based on understanding people's needs
• Gauge the demand for different products to avoid overstocking or running out of supplies
• Offer customized product recommendations
• Provide targeting ads in physical stores thanks to location-based data

Examples of the Internet of Behaviors in different sectors

Studies show that the Internet of Behaviors has the biggest impact on marketing and retail, followed by entertainment, finances, healthcare, and education. Let's see how the technology can transform these industries.

Source

Please note that marketing is not included below because it spans several sectors.

The Internet of Behaviors in Retail

The Internet of Behaviors, combined with AI, can help understand what each consumer likes and needs from their browsing history, stats from physical stores, voice assistant search queries, and more, and only recommend products and services that are relevant to that person. This information also helps craft customized marketing campaigns.

You can also tune your settings to capture customer feedback from Google surveys. For instance, when users are asked to review a particular restaurant, you can understand what type of food this person likes and which atmosphere they prefer.

There are ready-made solutions that you can integrate into your online store to analyze consumer behavior. One example is Sweet Analytics. This London-based startup built a powerful user data platform that deploys machine learning to gauge customer behavior, engagement patterns, and preferences. It pulls data from different sources, including Google, Shopify, etc. to provide a unified image of each customer. With this knowledge, you can direct your marketing efforts to the right person at the right time with the right content.

There are IoB tools that can benefit physical stores as well. For instance, abka Nano convenience stores use self-checkout systems facilitated by AI-powered cameras and a dedicated mobile app. To shop at these stores, consumers need to connect a bank card to the Zabka app and generate a QR code and scan it every time they enter a Nano store.

You don't have to queue to pay for the groceries. Cameras positioned on the shelves identify the products that you took and the corresponding amount is deducted from your card. After a while, the app starts offering customized product suggestions based on clients' purchase history.

The Internet of Behaviors in media and entertainment

This sector uses the Internet of Behaviors to understand the audience and cater to their needs. For example, IoB can analyze data gathered from virtual reality headsets, enabling businesses to improve user gaming experience.

And, just like with the retail segment, the media also benefits from the Internet of Behaviors for targeted advertisement and recommendations, such as suggesting a movie that corresponds to a user's taste.

An Estonian startup, Cookie3, uses behavioral analytics on blockchain platforms dedicated to gaming, metaverse, and other entertainment segments to understand consumer behavior based on their virtual wallet history. The tool can analyze smart contracts, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and more to identify behavioral patterns.

The Internet of Behaviors in finance and insurance

Financial institutions can benefit from the Internet of Behaviors in calculating credit scores, which aids in loan approval decisions. This approach also helps identify low-risk clients to offer them customized interest rates and other perks.

In another application, if banks are familiar with the “normal” behavior of each customer, they can block transactions that don't fit into this picture.

Vehicle insurance companies can use IoT data on different driving factors, such as speed, the person's role in accidents, instances of driving under the influence, etc. This helps managers understand their clients' behavior and compile customized insurance premiums for careful drivers.

Let's take as an example a research project conducted by Deloitte and Wikistrat consultancy, which revealed interesting opportunities for the banking sector. As banks tend to finance a purchase of expensive physical items, they could collaborate with manufacturers to capture data on these items' usage. This enables banks to notice item failure and proactively offer loans.

The Internet of Behaviors in healthcare

One example of using the Internet of Behaviors in healthcare is analyzing real-time patient data submitted from IoT devices that track vital signs, such as blood pressure and heart rate, to determine if the patient forgot to take their medicine and send a reminder.

Additionally, IoT healthcare companies can build IoB solutions that help doctors assess a patient's reactions to the prescribed treatment remotely without them being physically present. Physicians can also pinpoint the behaviors that have a negative effect on a patient's health and see how often the person engages in them.

A European team of researchers developed an approach that helps detect early manifestations of Alzheimer's in the elderly. The team collected data from IoT sensors to study seniors' behavior and detect any changes that would indicate the early phases of this disease.

The Internet of Behaviors in education

Gathering data on student behavior helps educators create personalized programs. Also, deploying the Internet of Behaviors solutions at schools allows teachers to understand student engagement, concentration, and other learning patterns to predict their performance at the end of the academic year and identify students at risk of dropping out. This technology can even help teachers spot psychological disorders in students, like the tendency to hurt oneself.

Another application is implementing smart classrooms that can gather data on learners and monitor factors, such as attendance, through RFID tags embedded in student cards.

A team of researchers from the UAE used a combination of the Internet of Behaviors and AI to improve student performance. Their platform collected and analyzed data on the students' personal capabilities, which included reading and writing, and their social keen, aka volunteering and collaboration. This revealed the students' behavioral patterns and divided them into groups – low-performing, moderate, and strong performers. Afterward, the system gave recommendations to students based on identified weaknesses.

This experiment helped students improve. For instance, pupils who were recommended to better their speaking and collaboration skills achieved over 90% improvement. While the students who worked on writing and volunteering improved by 95% from their initial score.

Which challenges to expect while making the Internet of Behaviors a part of your business?

The Internet of Behaviors relies on several technologies, and you can encounter challenges related to any of them. Some of these issues are detailed on our blog, along with suggestions on how to overcome them.

This IoB article elaborates on the issues resulting from storing and processing large amounts of data on customer behavior, namely data privacy, and security. And as you will need to handle large amounts of data, you might be interested in checking out our recent post on data governance best practices.

Data privacy and ethical concerns

As the Internet of Behaviors is all about consumer data, data privacy is the first concern that comes to mind. People are often happy to receive customized products or product recommendations, but it doesn't mean they are ready to sacrifice their privacy.

Depending on the country of your operations, there are different laws to protect data privacy. In the European Union, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) governs data protection in Europe. The US doesn't have such a unified regulation, but there are multiple laws that control data privacy in different sectors, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which applies to the healthcare industry.

Here are some grueling data privacy violations and consequent fines:

• Instagram was fined by Ireland's Data Protection Commissioner (DPC) in 2022 for violating children's privacy under GDPR. The company paid $403 million.
• In the same year, the DPC fined Meta $277 million, as the company failed to protect the personal data of its 500 million users.
• H&M received a $41.5 million fine from the Hamburg Commissioner for Data Protection and Freedom of Information due to its GDPR violations. A technical error made the sensitive data of H&M employees available for everyone to see.

When speaking about privacy, keep in mind the issue of consent. If a company wants to use personal data, they need to obtain explicit consent from every person involved for every type of usage.

Data security

As the Internet of Behaviors involves storing and processing large amounts of data, it makes the company a more worthwhile target for cybercriminals. To minimize the risk of cyberattacks, companies can do the following:

• Update their software regularly to patch any discovered vulnerabilities
• Use security-intensive cryptographic protocols
• Enforce a reliable password management system
• Stay ahead of new intrusion techniques, constantly scan for vulnerabilities, and fix security loopholes before anyone gets the chance to exploit them

In addition to hacking the company itself, attackers might choose to compromise personal IoT devices and progress from there. Therefore, it's essential to educate users on how to secure their gadgets.

Final thoughts

From detecting early disease onsets to crafting targeted advertisements, the Internet of Behaviors has many benefits across sectors. Still, the success of your IoB initiatives will depend on many factors, with some of them out of your control. For instance, privacy laws in your country of operations will have a large impact on what you can and can't do with personal data.

Another factor can be user reluctance to share their information. To overcome this, be reasonable in how you use the data and make sure you deliver value. When users see the benefits, they will become more open to giving their consent.

If you are ready to experiment with the Internet of Behaviors, we can help you get started with data collection, build and train custom AI algorithms, set up a big data analytics platform, and more. Even if you prefer to rely on ready-made solutions and cloud computing, you might still need a tech partner to help you integrate all this smoothly into your business workflows.

The post Internet of Behaviors: What It Is, and How It Could Impact Your Business appeared first on Datafloq.

Are you looking to take full control over your manufacturing process and monitor your supply chain? Then an Industrial Internet of Things solution might be exactly what you need.

Keep reading this article to discover top Industrial IoT applications that will ensure the unfortunate situations above don't compromise your operations.

What is Industrial IoT, and how does it work?

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is the utilization of sensors to gather and process data from connected devices with the goal of understanding and improving the industrial processes. IIoT can also use actuators and programmable controllers to communicate with devices and make them act in a certain way.

The number of IoT devices is steadily growing worldwide. Statista reported 11.28 billion devices in 2021. And this number is expected to surpass 29 billion by 2030 as the demand for IoT grows. Ericsson states that for a factory to be considered “smart,” it needs to deploy 0.5 IoT devices per square meter.

So, how do IoT devices work together? And what do you need to know to use them at your organization?

The Anatomy of IoT

IoT architecture consists of software and hardware components that interact together to aggregate, transmit, and analyze data coming from different devices. Below, you will find a brief description of the five main IoT layers. For a detailed explanation, check out our detailed guide on IoT architecture.

1. Device layer. Covers various IoT devices equipped with sensors and actuators. Sensors gather data from the corresponding devices and transmit it as a signal to a processing unit. Actuators, on the contrary, receive commands – i.e., signals – from processing centers and make devices act upon them.
2. Network layer. Spans communication technologies, such as Bluetooth, 4G/5G, and Wi-Fi, to mention a few examples.
3. Edge computing layer. Comprises intermediary devices between IoT units and cloud servers. These devices process critical data locally and send the remaining information to the cloud at scheduled intervals, thus reducing infrastructure costs. While edge computing devices aren't part of the traditional IoT architecture, they're getting increasingly popular with the Internet of Things adopters.
4. Device and application support layer. Receives, processes, and stores data gathered from IoT sensors.
5. Application layer. Covers different applications that work on IoT data. This includes analytical algorithms, data visualization tools, software that issues commands to actuators, etc.

While the “traditional” IoT is customer-centric and captures how people interact with their smart devices, Industrial IoT focuses on enterprise-wide applications and implies large-scale deployments.

IIoT platforms for even greater benefits

IoT is not a new concept, and many industrial organizations use IoT sensors to gather data from connected devices. However, IoT is often deployed in isolated silos for each Industrial IoT application, which limits data sharing and restricts the benefits.

To mitigate this, organizations can benefit from the Internet of Things development services to build IIoT platforms that span the entire enterprise. This setup will break isolated IoT pipelines and establish a centralized point for managing IoT devices across different use cases. It will also allow you to integrate more data and have a unified view on all operations.

Top 10 Industrial IoT applications

Here are 10 key Industrial Internet of Things examples that will help you save time and money without compromising quality:

1. Predictive maintenance
2. Quality control
3. Supply chain management
4. Asset tracking
5. Inventory monitoring
6. Remote equipment and production site control
7. Energy management
8. Automation
9. Process optimization and advanced analytics
10. Safety control

Predictive maintenance

Manufacturers go through 800 hours of equipment downtime annually, which is equivalent to 15 hours a week. Another research shows that unplanned device failure can cost a company as much as $260,000 per hour.

Fortunately, Industrial IoT can be applied to prevent equipment failure and cut down on associated expenses. IoT sensors placed on equipment and vehicles can gather data on its performance and condition, such as vibrations, voltage, and temperature. These sensors detect and report any suspicious changes and slight performance degradations, giving technicians enough time to interfere and fix the issue before it impacts the production process.

Volvo, one of the leading car manufacturers, outfits its trucks with IoT sensors that capture vehicle data and send it for analysis. Their comprehensive IoT platform can process millions of data records instantly. This tactic enables Volvo to reduce track repair time by 25% and diagnostic time by a whopping 70%.

Quality control

IoT allows manufacturers to monitor their products at any stage, starting with raw materials, and all the way as the item moves along the production line. This even includes the amount of waste emitted during the manufacturing process. IoT sensors can continue gathering data even after the item is purchased. They can transmit information on customer satisfaction and keep track of any issues the client encounters with the product.

Recently, a research team deployed IoT sensors together with convolutional neural networks to identify defects in Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) manufacturing before the products reached the final production stages. As a result, they could spot defected PCBs with 97% accuracy.

There are many benefits of combining IoT and AI, like in the IIoT example above. To learn more, check out this Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) blog post from our innovation analysts.

Supply chain management

Industrial IoT systems allow managers to track different events across the supply chain. They can access real-time information on the location of materials in transit and get a notification if there is an unforeseen delay, accompanied with the supplier's justification. Sensors also help monitor temperature, humidity, and other relevant conditions of transported goods.

In May 2021, DHL transported around 200 million COVID-19 vaccines to over 120 countries worldwide. The company used IoT sensors to monitor transportation conditions and ensure the temperature did not exceed the threshold, which would result in spoilage.

In another real-life IIoT application, California-based Golden State Foods uses IBM's IoT trackers to monitor storage conditions while transporting meat.

Furthermore, deploying IoT in supply chains can help in logistics optimization as companies can identify shorter, less crowded routes. Enhanced with AI, such systems can predict traffic congestions, take into account weather conditions and accidents on the transportation route and make the necessary changes. Consider consulting artificial intelligence services vendors for comprehensive logistics optimization solutions.

An interesting example of combining AI and IIoT comes from a logistics innovation company. The client turned to ITRex to develop an AI-powered IoT system that allows companies to monitor cargo in real time, calculate shipping costs based on 60 parameters, fill in paperless documents, and more. Currently, this IIoT platform has over 25,000 users, including large players in the transportation sector, such as DHL and Maersk.

Asset tracking

Large facilities typically have too many assets that employees can't keep track of. For instance, studies show that nurses waste around 10% of their time searching for equipment. This problem is not limited to healthcare. The same goes for large factories, stores, etc.

One of the Industrial IoT applications is that it can automate asset finding and monitoring. Companies can outfit their assets, such as finished goods, raw materials, tools, and packages, with radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags. These tags are scanned with RFID readers to display information on the corresponding item. Another option is to use equipment sensors that transmit signals over Bluetooth. If power consumption is an issue and you need long-range connectivity, opt for narrowband IoT (NB-IoT), which relies on low-power wide area network (LPWAN) technology.

In addition to locating items, IIoT-powered asset tracking can help you protect raw materials and avoid waste. For instance, if employees are working with large paint barrels, it's tempting to grab the barrel that is the closest to the entrance point instead of walking through the barrel storage unit checking for expiration dates. With IoT tags, employees will be notified about the location of the barrels nearing their expiration date and receive a warning if they still grab the closest item.

There are many vendors who have their own IoT tracking systems. For instance, Bosch built a cloud-based Bluehound asset tracking solution, which relies on Bluetooth to transmit signals. This system was designed in collaboration with construction firms and can be integrated with popular enterprise-wide software used in manufacturing. Bosch claims the tags can withstand water and dust and their batteries can last up to two years. This system captures detailed asset-related information. For instance, it can understand when a tool was dropped. And if an item goes missing, the system can show where it was last seen.

In another example, Volvo uses IoT-powered trackers to track vehicles in its large truck plants, where they assemble around 72 vehicles per day.

Inventory monitoring

Another Internet of Things industrial application is fitting the inventory with IoT sensors that will transmit its status in real time. For example, if materials or manufactured products are overheated in storage, smart sensors will ask an IoT-enabled thermostat to lower the temperature in the storage unit.

Companies can combine Industrial IoT and analytics to rearrange inventory in an optimal way. For instance, the tools and raw materials that are used the most frequently will be moved closer to access points.

IIoT can monitor inventory levels and automatically place an order if stock decreases below a predetermined threshold. This eliminates the need for manual checks. If you are a retailer owning a store with electronic shelves, you can deploy e-labels. Powered by Bluetooth beacons, these tags allow customers to place orders simply by pressing on them. Suppliers will receive order alerts and can either confirm or decline. The e-label can also display “on-order” tag to prevent customers from placing repetitive orders.

Levi Strauss, a clothing company, deploys RFID tags to monitor stock levels. This enables the company to know how many items they still have left of each model and when the new arrivals are expected.

Remote equipment and production site control

Giving managers control over remote equipment is another important Industrial IoT application. Sensors can monitor machinery and allow human operators to activate equipment, shut it down, or change the settings. For instance, if water pump leakage is detected, the technician can deactivate the pump without having to access it physically. This use case is particularly convenient for machinery installed in hard-to-reach locations.

Speaking of remote locations, IIoT can be deployed to control tower beacon lights. These lights have very specific requirements, and any organization that owns towers, like the telecom sector, has to conform to these standards. IoT sensors can make sure the lights are located at the right height, and have the required color and brightness, and notify the operator immediately in the case of violations.

IIoT is also helpful in monitoring remote sites. For example, the British oil and gas company Shell, partnered with an IIoT startup Hiber to install IoT sensors in their wells. The sensors are supposed to gather information on the wells' pressure and temperature to minimize human intervention. This is not the only IoT industrial application that Shell deployed. The oil and gas giant also used the technology to protect its pipelines. The company claims to have saved $1 million deploying IoT sensors in its oilfields.

Energy management

Companies can attach IoT sensors to its infrastructure to monitor the environment and cut on energy consumption when possible. For instance, sensors can turn off the lights when everyone leaves the building. They can also gather and analyze data on the heating and ventilation system to find the optimal performance.

Another application of Industrial IoT is detecting when one piece of equipment starts to excessively consume electricity. This is often an indication that the machine is damaged and needs closer inspection.

The Chinese company Chengdu Xihui Water Environmental Co., Ltd relied on MindSphere, the Industrial IoT as a service solution from Siemens, to save on energy consumption. The company operates wastewater treatment stations, and energy bills account for almost half of their operational costs. Chengdu Xihui deployed IoT sensors on its equipment to gather real-time data. After thorough analysis, the company understood when the equipment is at its highest energy consumption rate and managed to match this with off-peak electricity prices, reducing the expenses by 10%.

Automation

With the help of IIoT and robotics, it's possible to automate tedious tasks that are typically performed by human employees.

One example of this Industrial IoT application comes from Amazon. The retail giant uses several types of robots at its warehouses to automate tedious and even dangerous tasks. For instance, Cardinal robot can lift packages, read their label with the help of AI and computer vision, and place the right package into a GoCart to move packages within the facility. Cardinal can easily lift heavy packages that can cause injuries in human employees.

Proteus is another robot that can move GoCarts through order fulfillment centers while navigating around people and robots.

IoT-based automation is not limited to warehouse-related activities. Robots can also take over production tasks. For example, Lear Corporation, a car seat manufacturer, relies on UR5 robots to assemble car seats. UR5 works alongside human employees and can perform tasks, such as screwdriving, lifting, and placing seats.

Robots can also replace humans in toxic environments, like painting facilities with poisonous emissions.

Process optimization and advanced analytics

Another Industrial IoT application example is spotting opportunities for process and product optimization with the help of analytics. IoT enables manufacturers to identify and predict bottlenecks in production processes and address the issue preemptively. The technology can also help update performance benchmarks. These production standards, such as the amount of time it takes to produce a product part, are set and rarely updated. Tools like Machine Metrics allow managers to gather performance data and optimize job standards to set realistic deadlines and prices of new products.

Applying advanced analytics to data incoming from purchased products helps companies understand how customers actually utilize the items, and update the warranty policy accordingly.

IoT sensors attached to packages enable companies to monitor the products during transportation and optimize the packaging to minimize item damage.

Safety control

IoT can contribute to workers' safety by monitoring the environment, employee behavior, and compliance with safety protocols. Employees working at high altitudes or operating heavy machinery can wear sensors that will evaluate their body temperature, perspiration, and working technique, and alert managers if they detect a likelihood of a hazardous scenario. Given that musculoskeletal disorders are responsible for 33% of workplace injuries, these sensors can significantly enhance safety.

For instance, a workplace wearables firm called Kinetic built a smart device the size of a smartphone. It can detect posture and movements that are highly dangerous on the job and notify the employee immediately through light vibrations.

Another example of IIoT comes from Uruguay, where a biofuel plant supplies all workers with a smart helmet. It contains sensors that track people's movements and detect if someone falls or spends too much time in an area with noxious gasses.

Factories can also enhance safety by deploying environmental sensors. These devices can monitor the surroundings for dangers. For instance, they can detect extreme temperatures that can result in a fire and spot any hazardous gas leakage, and alert workers.

On a final note

Industrial IoT has many exciting applications. It can decrease time and costs associated with equipment failure, take over tedious tasks that pose health risks for human employees, make sure the stock is always replenished so that you don't get stuck waiting for raw materials. And these are just a few of its benefits.

However, there are challenges associated with deploying this technology. The main problem with IoT applications in industry is maintaining data security. As more information is aggregated, processed, and stored, the higher the risk of cyberattacks. Another challenge is the costs associated with IoT solutions. Keep these aspects in mind when choosing your IIoT vendor. We can help you equip your devices with sensors, build a platform that enables you to manage the IoT devices, develop custom big data analytics solutions tailored to your business needs.

Whether you want to build IIoT infrastructure from scratch, improve your existing initiatives, or supplement IoT with AI and advanced analytics, drop us a line! We will work with you to produce a customized solution that meets your unique business needs.

The post Top Industrial IoT Applications to Spark Innovation appeared first on Datafloq.

With the development of IoT devices, their communication standards are also progressing. There has been a substantial expansion in LPWA networks to the amount of 61% year-on-year growth, people have started using the 5G network, and many other developments are taking place. In this article, we will talk about different IoT protocols and Communication Standards used in IoT-connected devices.

What are IoT Protocols and their Types?

The term protocol defines the set of rules and guidelines used for formatting and processing data. These protocols act as a common language for connected devices and computers to communicate. Not every computing device is built with the same hardware and software, but they may have to communicate at some point.

This is where protocols come into play and allow different devices to communicate and connect seamlessly. IoT protocols refer to the communication system whereby different IoT devices can connect and communicate.

Hence, these IoT protocols are as imperative to the entire structure as an IoT device itself. Moreover, it must be understood that not all protocols are created equal. They are built with different purposes and are able to channel different communication systems. There are IoT communication standards that work well for devices located within a building, while others are meant to administer cross-continent connections and everything in between.

There are two types of IoT protocols;

Network Protocols

Network IoT protocols help devices connect over the network, and they are generally used over the internet. IoT protocols in this category are able to process end-to-end data communication within the predefined scope of the network. The most popular network protocols are HTTP, LoRaWan, Bluetooth, etc.

IoT Data Protocols

The IoT Data protocols play an important role in connecting low-power IoT devices. These protocols help establish point-to-point communication with the device hardware on the client's end. IoT data protocols can also allow devices to connect without the internet. Popular IoT data protocols include MQTT, CoAP, AMQP, etc.

Here are the 12 Top IoT Protocols

All the protocols work on the basis of an IoT architecture. This architecture underlines the development of networking systems built on a stack of different technologies and are frequently visualized in a framework. The developers and technologies use this framework to conceptualize how data travels through the entire stack, building connections and communication channels.

These connections are then defined with the help of different layers;

• Three-layer models include Perception, Network, and Application.
• Four-layer model includes Perception, Support, Network, and Application.
• Five-layer model includes Perception, Transport, application, and business, processing OR Physical, Application, Transport, Network, and Data Link.

MQTT

Message Queuing Telemetry Transport came out in 1999, and it is used for M2M communication with the help of publish-subscribe architecture. The purpose is to establish communication between different devices, but it also works with constrained devices. MQTT is specifically built to enable communication among devices in low-bandwidth areas where the mobiles and sensors are running on unreliable networks. Even though MQTT began working as a proprietary protocol, today it's a leading open-source protocol used in IoT and IIoT devices.

CoAP

Constrained Application Protocol (CoAP) is a web transfer protocol and is used under three conditions;

• Limited networks
• Low bandwidth
• Low availability

Based on the client/server architecture, CoAP supports the REST model and makes the required resources available with the URL. Moreover, the clients can make requests of different types, including GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE, with CoAP. The basic purpose of CoAP is to help establish connections in highly congested networks.

DDS

Data Distribution Service is meant to be used for real-time systems. It's a middleware protocol and an API standard providing better data connectivity. The DDS protocol integrates different components of a system together and provides low-latency data connectivity. As a result, the connection between devices is secure and reliable. Moreover, it works on a scalable architecture, which is important for IoT applications.

AMQP

Advanced Message Queuing Protocol is used for sending and receiving transactional messages between different servers. It's a standard application layer protocol and has three main functions. These are receiving and placing messages in a queue, storing the messages, and establishing a relationship between different components. AMQP is highly reliable and secure, which makes it a common IoT communication protocol used in the banking industry. However, in other industries, AMQP is not so popular because of its heavy memory requirements.

XMPP

Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol exchange messages between devices and connections in real time. It's a flexible communication standard and protocol and is used as an availability or presence indicator for the servers. In other words, XMPP helps identify whether the connections between servers and devices transmitting messages are working properly.

OPC UA

OPC Unified Architecture is specifically made for communication at the industrial level. The protocol is built to ensure seamless interoperability between manufacturers and their operating systems running the machines and equipment. This is a transport-agnostic protocol that is compatible with previous and new architectures, including requests/responses like websocket or HTTP and publish or subscribe.

Bluetooth and BLE

Bluetooth might be the most common IoT and communication protocol a non-technical person has heard of, as they use it in their daily lives. Bluetooth represents a short wavelength and ultra-high frequency radio waves communication protocol used for different purposes. This includes audio streaming, transfer of data, etc. Bluetooth is a low-power consumption communication standard, but it also has low-range connectivity. A new version of Bluetooth is BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) which is a better version meant to administer IoT connections. BLE uses even less energy than bluetooth and this makes it a good choice for fitness trackers and smart home devices.

Cellular

Cellular networks are also used for establishing connections between IoT devices and peripherals. Currently, most IoT devices rely on 4G cellular network protocol, but as 5G becomes more prevalent, the devices will take no time to switch. These networks consume more power than other protocols, but they are also super important. To establish cellular network connectivity, a SIM card is required. These connections have low latency and provide the benefit of high-speed data transfer.

LoRAWAN

Long Range WAN also classifies as a media access control (MAC) IoT protocol. The primary benefit of LoRaWAN is that it allows low-powered devices to communicate directly with internet-connected devices and connections. As the name suggests, LoRaWAN builds these connections over a long range. LoRaWAN is built on top of LoRA radio module technology. With this, LoRaWAN allows devices to connect and communicate while managing the connection between the end-node devices and network gateways.

Wi-Fi

Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) network is used extensively in home, commercial and industrial buildings, and it's a frequently used IoT protocol. Wi-Fi offers high-speed data transfer and provides a larger capability of processing large amounts of data. Mostly, Wi-Fi is best suited for LAN environments and works effectively well in short to medium-range distances. Having said that, Wi-Fi networks are power-consuming, which makes deployment for every use case a bit difficult. Moreover, Wi-Fi has a lower range, and its scalability is also less than optimum.

Z-Wave

Z-Wave is a wireless mesh network built to provide connectivity with low-power radio frequency systems. Z-wave is similar to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth as it lets devices communicate with an encrypted connection. So, the level of security and connectivity is higher than others in Z-Wave. Mostly, the Z-Wave IoT protocol is used for home automation security systems, and it also has several industrial-grade applications.

HTTP

Hypertext Transfer Protocol has been around since the inception of data communication over the WWW ecosystem. Due to its global acceptance, HTTP is used in the IoT world and administers communication. With HTTP, two devices can communicate with each other and share information, but no other device can be added to the mix.

Conclusion

Connections and connected devices over an IoT network need to communicate and transfer data between each other for better communication. To administer and manage the communication, some standard communication protocols are used, which define how a connection will be established. It will also determine the speed of data transfer, security, reliability, and scalability. Hence, choosing the right IoT protocol for communication is crucial. Confused about how IoT and its protocols can play a crucial role in your organization, Contact Us, and we can help you with the answer.

The post IoT protocol and commnication standards appeared first on Datafloq.

According to a report by IDC, there were an estimated 31 billion IoT devices in use worldwide
in 2020, projected to grow to 75 billion by 2025. This massive growth presents both
opportunities and challenges for advertisers.

On the one hand, IoT devices provide a wealth of data that can be used to create more
personalized and targeted campaigns. On the other hand, the IoT revolutionizes traditional
advertising, connecting outdoor devices to advertising platforms and serving dynamic ads out
of the home.

In this article, we'll delve into how the IoT has already changed digital advertising and share
expert insights on how businesses can make the most of this technology to improve thei
radvertising efforts.

The First Way: More Sophisticated Data Collection & Targeting

IoT devices generate mountains of data, which advertisers can use to understand consume
rbehavior and preferences better. They can gain insights into user behavior and preferences
from IoT devices like wearables, smart home devices, and mobile phones. With this
information, they can craft ads that target users more personally, leading to highe
rengagement rates and conversions.

For example, imagine receiving an ad for sports apparel that perfectly aligns with you
rexercise habits, thanks to your fitness tracker. With IoT data, this level of personalization is no
longer just a pipe dream for marketers but a reality they can tap into to drive sales.

IoT also creates a handful of new opportunities to target users contextually. For instance, a
smart refrigerator that detects a user is running low on a particular food item could display an
ad for that item when the user opens the refrigerator door.

Similarly, smart home devices that collect data on a user's environment, such as temperature
and lighting, could be used to deliver ads relevant to the user's needs. With IoT data, ads are
no longer just random shots in the dark but tailored messages that users are more likely to
pay attention to.

The Second Way: Digital Out-Of-Home (DOOH) & Dynamic Ads

Digital out-of-home (DOOH) advertising is another way IoT transforms the advertising industry.
DOOH advertising refers to digital advertising displayed in public spaces, such as digital
billboards or screens in shopping malls.

Picture this: you're walking down a busy street and see a digital billboard advertising the
latest smartphone. But wait, this isn't any ordinary billboard – it's an intelligent billboard that
uses IoT sensors to gather data on the demographics of people passing by. Suddenly, the
billboard displays an ad more personalized to your age, gender, and interests.

The dynamic nature of these ads leads to better results than just using traditional billboards o
reven online ads at some point. A study by Ocean Outdoor found that 71% of consumers say
digital billboards stand out more than online ads, and 63% say they are more memorable than
traditional billboards.

With IoT technology, DOOH advertising can interact and respond to its surroundings. Digital
screens in a shopping mall may use facial recognition technology to display ads that change
based on the facial expressions of people passing by. If you're sad or bored, the ad might
change to something more entertaining or humorous to cheer you up!

The real-time data integration capabilities of IoT are also revolutionizing DOOH advertising.
Advertisers can target users based on weather and traffic data to display ads for hot coffee on
a cold and rainy day. Or, a digital screen that uses location-based data to display ads fo
rnearby stores and promotions.

The Third Way: Interactive & Augmented Reality Ads

IoT devices are unmatching in terms of interactivity. Even though some of these examples
might not be the typical case now, we await more creative approaches to engage users with
OOH advertising in the future.

For example, a brand could create a conversational ad that asks users questions about thei
rpreferences and then recommends products based on their answers. Similarly, a beauty
brand could create a smart mirror that allows users to try on different makeup looks and then
purchase products directly through the mirror.

Buzzed augmented reality (AR) technology can also be applied here. IoT devices like
smartphones and smart glasses enable new AR advertising forms that give users a more
immersive experience.

A furniture brand could create an AR ad that allows users to see how a new sofa would look
in their living room. Similarly, a car manufacturer could create an AR ad allowing users to
explore a new vehicle's features in 3D.

To summarize, IoT is transforming digital advertising beyond traditional targeting and data
collection. With the advent of interactive and AR campaigns, dynamic campaigns, and digital

out-of-home advertising, brands have unprecedented opportunities to engage with customers
in immersive ways.

By leveraging IoT data, brands can create more personalized and effective advertising
campaigns that resonate deeply with consumers. In addition, as IoT continues to evolve, it will
provide even more insights into customer behavior and preferences, enabling brands to stay
ahead of the curve and remain competitive in a digital landscape.

The post 3 Ways the Internet of Things Has Already Changed Digital Advertising appeared first on Datafloq.

But how can these modernization efforts be used for startups with smaller budgets? It pays to prepare for tomorrow today, and there are a number of measures that can help small businesses to embrace the future of winning and retaining customers.

Many of the approaches that can be taken today can help businesses to become more focused in their acquisition efforts and to gain greater insights from the data of their conversions.

(Image: Smart Insights)

The six pillars of effective digital marketing devised by Smart Insights offers an indication of how comprehensive digital transformation can be for the marketing efforts of businesses of all sizes, but they won't necessarily require wholesale changes.

In terms of conversational messaging content, media, and customer experience for instance, the emergence of big data can leverage powerful insights into who your target audience really is, the level of personalization they expect, and the type of content they want to digest.

But what measures can be taken today in order to modernize a startup's digital marketing efforts for tomorrow? Let's take a look at five key ways that lead acquisition can be enhanced with the future in mind:

Leverage Big Data

The voracity of big data means that it's become an essential and powerful marketing tool that can significantly enhance the customer experience. For instance, you could want to improve your customer onboarding measures through insights. Utilizing AI programs to interpret masses of visitor data, how they behave on your pages, and what key pain points are can help to illuminate where your website excels and struggles.

By adopting big data analytics, your startup will be capable of adding better personalization to customer-facing services-vastly improving their experience in the process.

These insights can also be adapted for future marketing campaigns by gathering emails through your website's lead magnet. This information can also be used for a greater understanding of what can inspire customers to enter your sales funnel. This insight into ‘why' as well as ‘how' can be invaluable for shaping self-perception.

The quality of insight that big data can provide can't be underestimated. It stands as a powerful marketing tool that can bring numerous advantages. It forms the foundation for reliable information built on research, automation, targeting, and personalization. Platforms like Google Analytics stand as strong low-cost services that can offer startups a great wealth on insight into the interactions between their website and its visitors.

Prepare for Zero-Party Data

Businesses with an eye on the future need to look beyond third-party cookies. In the age of GDPR, we're seeing more users become suspicious of sharing their data with businesses-and rightly so. However, this poses new challenges for the future of data acquisition.

Zero-party data is self-reported information, and is voluntarily shared with companies that are trusted by their audience.

To build impactful customer experiences, forward-thinking businesses are dependent on understanding what motivates their leads, and work to gain insights into these motivations first-hand.

The beauty of zero-party, self-reported data is that it's reliable, and the actionable insights that it provides can pave the way for revolutionizing the experience you can deliver for your customers.

Preparing for zero-party data today by incorporating subtle surveys and questionnaires on your pages and marketing materials can help to generate a larger bank of data should the negative sentiment towards third-party cookies continue to grow.

Work Now to Embrace a 5G Future

You need to incorporate 5G planning into your marketing strategy today. We're already accustomed to seeing digital ads appear on our smartphones, screens in shopping malls and airports, and online, but the arrival of 5G has the potential to supercharge digital marketing.

With connectivity becoming increasingly available from anywhere in the world-even in rural areas-businesses have more freedom to consider their digital advertising. Today, 5G ready smartphones are dominating marketplaces, making consumers more accessible through 5G advertising.

This means that small and ambitious businesses have more freedom to incorporate creativity into their marketing strategies. With some brands already working to develop advertising in the metaverse and via augmented reality cameras, the sky seems to be the limit with what marketing can achieve in the coming years.

With this in mind, it's essential that you incorporate 5G preparedness into your strategies, and look to the opportunities that more high-quality campaigns can bring in terms of lead engagement and acquisition.

Furthermore, faster data means that its collection is likely to improve significantly in the 5G era. Finding out more about your customers will pave the way for more responsive personalization, with experiences capable of being seamlessly tailored to the needs of customers.

Embrace Video

According to a report from Technology Advice, fewer than a quarter of businesses surveyed claimed to use video in their marketing efforts. However, this is a faux pas when considering the popularity of video for consumers-particularly those who are prevalent on social media platforms.

In fact, an Animoto survey found that four-times as many consumers prefer video as opposed to reading about a product. Today, technology is making video-oriented campaigns more advanced and high-quality-without the need to turn to professional editing teams and choreographers.

Given how easy it is to create video content, small businesses have the power to create impactful marketing campaigns that are far more likely to get noticed by customers and acted upon.

Use Advanced Tools to Your Advantage

When you've strategized your modernized marketing goals, it's essential that you utilize the right tools to help you to achieve them. Luckily, there are plenty of great options that are low-cost for startups to get started with their strategy.

Online software like social media schedulers, for instance, can help to provide analytics to keep track of what your audience is engaging in and what they're largely ignoring. The aforementioned Google Analytics is a highly advanced tool that presents wide ranges of data that's open for interpretation.

For more specialist marketing tools, there's HubSpot Marketing Hub, which helps users to consolidate all their marketing tools into one single platform, while the likes of Trello and TrueNorth all work wonders in providing campaign management.

Although the digital marketing landscape is constantly evolving, recent advances in technology promise to be a watershed moment for an industry that's always ripe for further innovation.

As the potential of 5G and big data are further realized, we're likely to see a new flurry of ambitious and advanced campaigns designed to personalize experiences, engage, and entertain audiences.

By planning to accommodate these technologies today, your startup will be capable of reaping the benefits faster tomorrow.

The post Scaling the Marketing Efforts of Startups: 5 Essential Ways to Modernize Your Lead Acquisition appeared first on Datafloq.

And adding more to it, the advent of IoT has unleashed the true nature of technology i.e. catering to everyone's needs and allowing them to perform tasks within their comfort, which in turn makes it an intelligent and smarter system.

You can take the example of motion-sensor security cameras, that move as per the movement of the subject/object in a particular area and track and record everything, making it an intelligent system.

Another example that you might have all come across in the malls and shopping centers is the motion-detection doors that smartly detect the movement when the subject moves closer to the door and it makes the decision automatically.

But the question here is what is an IoT-Based Motion Detector and why develop such a system?

In this article, we will be filling you up with the answers and will also help you know how to develop an IoT-based motion detection system.

So, let's get started!

What is an IoT-Based Motion Detector?

It is a device that uses sensors and other communication channels to detect and monitor real-time physical movements and also alerts you to know what is going on in that specific environment. These devices are highly preferred to be used for home or office security which helps in theft prevention and to keep track of every ongoing activity and for several other important reasons.

iSpy is one such example of an IoT-based motion detection software, that supports devices like IP cameras, local USB cameras, and many more. It comes with a wide range of features like support for home assistance devices like Amazon Alexa, sends alerts via push notifications, and also helps in accessing your requirements from anywhere.

Also, note that there are different types of motion detection systems which include light detection systems, smoke detection, and many more that you can develop according to your requirements.

Benefits of IoT-Based Motion Detection Software

Now that you have an idea of what IoT-based motion detection software is, it is also important to learn about its benefits to help you get a clearer vision of why you should build this system and how it will help you.

So, here we go…

1. The primary benefit of developing an IoT-based motion detection system is that it helps in enhancing the customer experience of the devices.
2. It also helps in recording and real-time monitoring of what is going around in a particular area where the system is installed.
3. These devices also eliminate the risk of theft and make your office and home more secure.
4. It also helps by sending alarms and alerts via different mediums like SMS, email, and push notifications, when it notices any activity or motion in a particular environment.
5. It also enables you to save the video recordings in different formats as per your requirements and also helps in organizing the rational use of the space on your device.
6. Developing an IoT-based motion detection system will also help you control and manage the entire system remotely in your comfort from anywhere around the world as per your requirements. All you need is an active internet connection.
7. It also facilitates the logging and history of all the activities and also keeps the system secure with different encryption methods.
8. Additionally, developing an IoT-based motion detection system also ensures the safety of the zone for which it is designed and also helps in making smart decisions with the help of automation.

Now that you know about the benefits of developing an IoT-based motion detection system, it is also important to know about the challenges as well that you might come across during the development process. And among all one major challenge is the process of development and the budget which means it is time-consuming and might be expensive according to the requirements. But do not worry about that for the results will surely satisfy your needs and compensate for the same.

Until now, you are filled in with an overview of IoT-based motion detection systems and their benefits, and next, we will be filling you up with how to develop a motion detection system.

How to Develop an IoT-Based Motion Detection Software

Developing an IoT-Based Motion detection software is never easy. You need to conduct a thorough analysis of your requirements and then hire an IoT development company that does the job for you. Also, make sure that you perform the SWOT analysis before developing your project. This will help you list out all the essential aspects like the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of developing an IoT-Based motion detection system, which in turn will help you build an advanced and future-proof system by eliminating all the possible risks.

The basic steps involved in developing an IoT-based motion detection software are as follows –

• Firstly, identify your requirements, research, analyze, and set clear goals of what you want in the system along with the list of features.
• Next, look for the right development team who will help you develop the desired software by meeting all your requirements.
• Once you find the right person to do the job for you, you can share your requirements with them, sign a contract with all the necessary aspects of the project, and then they can start working on your project.

Now that we have listed the basic steps we have also listed some of the essential things to consider while developing an IoT-based motion detection system. They are –

• Check for the expertise of the software development company you are hiring for your project and try to know about the IoT-based products they have developed.
• Look for the reviews on the products developed by them and you can also check for client feedback to get better clarity on whether the company is suitable or not according to your needs.
• You can also share your requirements with them and get a consultation on what technology to use, for developers have in-hand experience in creating such products, which will also help you in developing a safe, rich, and future-proof system.
• Also, check for their development model and process along with the after-delivery maintenance and support policies.

Summing Up

Now that you have learned well about IoT-based motion detection software you can move ahead and follow the necessary steps to develop a top-notch system.

All you need is to list out the requirements and then hire the right development company and you can leave the rest up to them.

FAQs

1. What is a motion sensor in IoT?
   A motion sensor, also known as a motion detector, is an electronic device that uses a sensor to detect nearby motions and movements and sends alerts that are accessible on your mobile phones.
2. Which sensor is best for motion detection?
   Passive Infrared or PIRs is among the widely used sensors for motion detectors since it is reliable and does the work perfectly.
3. What are the different types of motion detectors?
   Three different types of motion detectors are used widely, they are –
   • Passive Infrared (PIR)
   • Microwave, and
   • Dual Tech/Hybrid

The post How to Develop IOT-Based Motion Detection Software? appeared first on Datafloq.

Explaining the 5G Hype

People around the world create more than 2.5 quintillion data bytes every day. In our increasingly online world, having a fast internet connection has become more than a luxury for many people – it is now a necessity. Thanks to this growing need for reliable service, many experts are placing their bets on 5G replacing standard home internet connections.

One of 5G‘s main advantages is its speed. With eyewatering download rates of up to 20 gigabytes per second (Gbps), 5G connections are lightning fast compared to most home internet connections, which typically offer speeds around 10-25 Mbps in the U.S. With a 5G connection, downloading a movie only takes a few seconds. It's a great option for playing online games, working from home, streaming HD videos and performing other bandwidth-intensive tasks.

5G also shines when it comes to its low latency. Latency is the amount of time it takes for data to travel from point A to point B, a crucial component of a fast internet connection. With 5G, latency is typically less than five milliseconds, which is much lower than typical home internet speeds.

If 5G home internet catches on, remote workers can say goodbye to freezing up in Zoom meetings. Other real-time applications, such as playing VR games or remotely controlling devices, will also be much easier to perform.

When Will 5G Become Standard?

5G is a brand-new technology that debuted in 2019, and many people are still unaware of what it is or why they should make the switch. As awareness grows and more people work from home than ever before, there will likely be a bigger market for 5G.

Additionally, there needs to be more infrastructure to support 5G‘s universal use. 5G requires specific cell towers and antennas to operate. Building this new infrastructure will be costly and labor-intensive, especially in hard-to-reach rural areas. The building costs might initially make 5G services more expensive than traditional home internet options.

Some remote regions may never adopt 5G technology due to the difficulty of building cell towers on less developed land. People living far from the main grid often reject intensive development, and many are content with slow or even absent internet connections.

Plus, many 5G towers have a pitifully low signal range – at least for now – of about 1,000 feet. Providers would have to build multiple small structures to bring 5G coverage to a whole neighborhood, which would require a lot of maintenance over time.

If 5G home internet ever becomes the norm, urban centers will likely be the first places to benefit, since they already have some 5G towers and antennas in place. The new infrastructure would also blend into the landscape better than it would in rural regions.

The Verdict on 5G Home Internet

5G technology may become standard in urban areas in the near future, but it won't replace traditional services in more remote regions until the signal range improves. Engineers should focus on developing a solution for the limited coverage issue.

People who only use the internet to check emails or browse social media might be content with their current service. However, 5G internet will play an increasingly important role as more people work from home and use IoT-connected devices. Consequently, 5G internet could someday become the norm, allowing people to use their devices like never before.

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