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Your Privacy and The Internet of Things

The Internet of Things is a remarkable push to bring data collection to a broader range of devices. As technology becomes cheaper, smaller, and more powerful, the internet has found its way into unlikely places. The Internet of Things brings conveniences and insights into the lives of the layperson and the daily dealings of businesses all around the world. What can we gain from the Internet of Things? What happens when the Internet of Things turns its back on us?

What is the Internet of Things?

The Internet of Things is a distributed method of connecting mundane objects, or things, to smart devices and the internet at large. This is done by attaching sensors and transceivers to these objects and directing them to share information that may make end-user lives more convenient[1].

The classic example of an IoT-enabled device is a smart refrigerator. The utility of a refrigerator is bolstered by the inclusion of a few sensors and the ability to communicate. We can extend the lifespan of these refrigerators by predicting service needs and reporting points of failure as soon as they arise. Consumers are able to streamline their grocery shopping, saving time in their increasingly busy lives. 

The benefits of the Internet of Things on a consumer level are numerous. On a commercial grade, they are unparalleled. We can use IoT-enabled devices to drive down overhead costs by taking preventive measures when our servers and production devices ask for regular maintenance. Data points can be gathered from clients at trade shows or in our stores that can further create comfortable and lucrative transactions. Security methods such as intrusion detection and loss prevention can once again be in the hands of the business owner with IoT connectivity.

What are some common IoT Risks?

The Internet of Things relies on the deployment of additional points of internet access, a haphazard deployment of IoT-enabled devices in a workplace can result in easily-missed holes in the digital security fence of your workplace. Password protection and shoddy firmware can lead a savvy hacker directly into a company’s most private data. Ransomware attacks could ironically arrive through an unsecured security camera[2]. 

Beyond security issues, privacy itself may be at risk when adopting IoT-enabled devices. Smart doorbells, for example, give local law enforcement nearly unrestricted access to the video data passing through the connection between the camera and the end user. Bringing on a device that promises to bring the conveniences of the Internet of Things needs to be a process taken on carefully and with a careful eye on end-user agreements.

Inviting the internet into your company creates an interesting set of vulnerabilities that may not have existed before. One thing to be said about simple machines is that they are entirely secure from a digital standpoint. Adding sensors to the devices running your production infrastructure or connecting devices that previously could not communicate with the internet eventually requires more infrastructure than before.

The Internet of Things relies on edge computing solutions[3]. These are solutions that bring computing power and storage away from the cloud and closer to the place of business. This distributed method of computing brings power and stability to IoT-enabled devices, allowing them to gather and process more data without losing speed or increasing latency. Edge computing solutions come in hardware form, like additional servers, or a software form, like bespoke applications or computing protocols. By virtue of existing near your private data, these secondary computing solutions open up a workplace to cyber-attacks and privacy concerns.

How Does AXEL Go Protect You? 

The shortcomings of the Internet of Things should not scare workplaces away from the conveniences and the massive data-related insights that can come from the clever integration of sensors and transceivers. Like anything else, informed decision-making and a safety-first mindset will prevent the Internet of Things from eroding the privacy and security of a workplace.

Adding additional points of failure to a network means that a business’s privacy and security will find themselves quickly under fire. AXEL Go is a file sharing and storage service that is dedicated to protecting privacy and security wherever possible. Our decentralized server structure and cutting-edge AES 256-bit encryption offer top-of-the-line security in the face of ransomware and brute force attacks. AXEL Go also guarantees your privacy when using our IPFS servers. Only authorized users have access to the contents of your storage. Not even AXEL is able to peer into your end-to-end encrypted storage. 

As technology moves forward in innovative directions, AXEL Go is ready to provide the security and privacy required to keep making the internet a safe and convenient place. 

Try AXEL Go Today

AXEL Go is an incredibly versatile tool in the fight for cyber security. Implementing our decentralized, encrypted storage into a workplace will create a robust bulwark between sensitive workplace data and any clever exploits hackers can slip through the cracks.
AXEL Go is a file storage and sharing service designed to revolutionize how we think about security online. Our user experience design is focused on handing top-of-the-line security to any business of any size. Our AES-256 bit encryption and decentralized server structure thwart cyber attacks on big businesses as competently as it protects local operations. No matter how tight the budget for your practice may be, we are the perfect fit for secure, intuitive storage and file sharing. You can try AXEL Go premium for free for 14 days. See what security backed by our $10,000 guarantee can do for your business.

Citations

[1]Fruhlinger, Josh. 2022. “What Is Iot? The Internet Of Things Explained”. Network World. https://www.networkworld.com/article/3207535/what-is-iot-the-internet-of-things-explained.html.

[2]Iredale, Gwyneth. 2022. “Security & Privacy Issues In The Internet Of Things (Iot)”. 101 Blockchains. https://101blockchains.com/security-and-privacy-in-iot.

[3]Gold, Jon, and Keith Shaw. 2022. “What Is Edge Computing And Why Does It Matter?”. Network World. https://www.networkworld.com/article/3224893/what-is-edge-computing-and-how-it-s-changing-the-network.html.

Personal Vehicle Telematics and Privacy Oversights

Our cars are collecting data without our consent. As vehicles have become more sophisticated, tracking information via the onboard diagnostic system (OBD) and built-in GPS has become commonplace. This data is loosely regulated, and that can create a massive privacy hole for consumers. This information can be pulled by insurance companies, mechanics, and whoever else has the authority to demand information from your car. This is rapidly becoming a privacy blindspot upon which we should shine a bright light and direct legislation.

Telematics, Privacy, and Your Vehicle

Telematics is the process of sending and receiving data related to the location and destination of vehicles on the move. In the past, this was typically reserved for fleet vehicles so companies could better track and direct workers to maximize productivity and minimize fuel consumption. Today, as the technology has become more affordable and personally helpful, telematics has found its way into newer vehicles. 

On its face, this information and coordination is a boon to the automotive world. Insurance companies could identify safe drivers, cities could better direct traffic, and the days of being lost on the road could disappear into history overnight. However, like with any technology, a more pernicious reality lies just beneath the surface. If unrestricted access to telematic data is given to too many parties, the vehicles trusted to shuttle us to and from work can easily become intrusive bundles of data weaponized against the driver or any passengers they may have had. Any private activity at any time can be extrapolated from the mere presence of a vehicle. Without oversight, insurance companies, civil courts, and law enforcement will pounce on this opportunity. Hackers plucking this information from servers holding onto this data for later use can easily dangle it over the heads of their targets with frightening precision and expedience.

Buckle Up Your Data

Anybody with a car will immediately understand how much information their vehicle can reveal about them. Everything from their home address to their grocery shopping habits can easily be laid bare once someone has access to location data. This information is sensitive and woefully under-legislated. 

Telematics law is a burgeoning legal framework since the innovations leading to the technology in vehicles have only recently been regularly included in automobiles heading to market. Many states simply defer to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and its already existing rules and regulations related to buying and selling the data of internet users. Clearly, this is insufficient. Many similarities exist between internet data and the telematic information collated by a private vehicle. Still, the degree to which drivers rely on their personal vehicles is entirely unlike the relationship they may have with their smartphones. It should also be noted that the collection and distribution of this private data, in many cases, may not be as simple to opt out of as data collection on the internet. Insurance companies and their massive lobbying power are also incentivized to obscure these oversights and push for legislation that will give them broader access to a driver’s private data than they already have. 

Citizens, privacy-minded or not, should push for legislation that covers these holes in privacy law. Telematic data belongs to more than just the driver of a vehicle. Passengers, family members, and children are inextricably tied to this data once they step foot in a car. Their privacy should not be waived simply because they decided to travel inside a vehicle. 

Protecting Your Privacy

AXEL understands that privacy comes first. Without privacy in the modern era, people are subjected to undue scrutiny from bad actors. Hackers, corrupt authority figures, and competitors always look for data that will give them a leg up on their perceived enemies. Any privacy oversights left unaddressed by legislation will inevitably turn against civilians and their best interests. 

When insurance companies offer customers discounts on premiums in exchange for unfettered access to private location data, eyebrows should be raised. Massive insurance companies act to maximize their profit by any means necessary. The overreach into their customers’ personal lives is not simply a business practice that trades the right to privacy for an opportunity to deny their customers’ claims. This represents a broader trend towards the unacceptable commodification and reduction of privacy.

AXEL Go is committed to protecting the privacy of its users and the interests of the internet at large. Our end-to-end encryption, password-protected secure fetch, and decentralized server structure are engineered to provide personal privacy from every angle. AXEL Go will never request access to private data in exchange for discounts, and our servers are designed to keep prying eyes out of our client’s storage no matter what.

Create a Private Space Online

AXEL Go is an incredibly versatile tool in the fight for cyber security. Implementing our decentralized, encrypted storage into a workplace will create a robust bulwark between sensitive workplace data and any clever exploits hackers can slip through the cracks.

AXEL Go is a file storage and sharing service designed to revolutionize how we think about security online. Our user experience design is focused on handing top-of-the-line security to any size business. Our AES-256 bit encryption and decentralized server structure thwart cyber attacks on big businesses as competently as it protects local operations. No matter how tight the budget for your practice may be, we are the perfect fit for secure, intuitive storage file sharing. You can try AXEL Go premium for free for 14 days. See what security backed by our $10,000 guarantee can do for your business.

Citations

“Research Shows Data Privacy Concerns For Telematics Policies”. 2022. Actuarialpost.Co.Uk. https://www.actuarialpost.co.uk/article/research-shows-data-privacy-concerns-for-telematics-policies-18317.htm.

Leefeldt, Ed. 2022. “The Witness Against You: Your Car”. Forbes Advisor. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/car-insurance/telematics-data-privacy/.

“The Surveillance State Has Invaded Our Cars. Why Don’T We Care?”. 2022. Fast Company. https://www.fastcompany.com/90389104/the-surveillance-state-has-invaded-our-cars-why-dont-we-care.

Has School Surveillance Gone Too Far?

When it comes to education, pen and paper simply aren’t enough these days. Even just twenty years ago, the most technology students would see in a classroom was the occasional TV cart for educational films. However, in today’s schools, classroom technology is far more than the occasional classroom movie. These days, it’s a necessity. 

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic forced classes online, education technology was revolutionizing the way students learn. From software programs like Schoology to the prevalence of SMART Boards, education technology is used in a variety of ways with one overarching goal: To help students learn and retain information better. To help achieve this goal, many schools have begun to distribute laptops and tablets to students. After all, many projects must be completed and turned in online, and issuing school laptops can ensure all students have equal access to their assignments. While this free distribution of education technology is a noble act, particularly for students who can’t afford premium technology on their own, the technology comes with a massive caveat.

In nearly all cases, school-issued technology is installed with monitoring software. While monitoring software is necessary in some capacities, like ensuring students aren’t playing games on their laptops during class, many software programs are concerningly complex. As education becomes more and more digitized, it’s fair to ask: How much should schools know about their students?

The State of Surveillance

Monitoring students during school isn’t anything new. After all, schools act as students’ guardians during the school day, so it makes sense to observe, monitor, and occasionally report students for illicit or unsafe activities. However, with the rise of technology in schools, students began to spend much of their time online. Naturally, a school’s desire to observe, monitor, and report extends to the digital world as well. Today, a wealth of software programs including Bark, Gnosis IQ, Gaggle, and Lightspeed are installed on student devices to monitor their online interactions[1]. 

And this monitoring isn’t limited to school either. Even outside of the classroom, these software programs utilize artificial intelligence and human moderators to monitor students’ private chats, documents, and emails[1]. If a student searches for something related to, say, self-harm, the software can send an alert to the school district, allowing teachers to message students within minutes. While this strategy can help prevent self-harm, family abuse, and other dangerous situations, it’s clear that student privacy is sacrificed in exchange for this goal.

With the sheer amount of surveillance that students face, few would argue that student privacy isn’t violated. The question, however, is if this sacrifice of privacy is worth it. Proponents of school surveillance argue that it helps schools keep tabs on students, so if a particular child is in danger, the school can take action. In fact, one of Gaggle’s main selling points is its claim that the software saves hundreds of lives per year[2]. While this statement may be exaggerated, the software certainly helps identify students in need quickly.

On the other hand, those against tracking argue that surveillance invades privacy and deters free speech. After all, if you know a live human is watching every email or message you send, you may be more careful about what you type. Ultimately, this tracking software expands the classroom walls to home life, making children feel like they’re being watched all day, every day. Although school surveillance works in some cases, it also has several unintended consequences.

The Harms of School Monitoring

First, the psychological harm to students from endless surveillance can not be understated. In fact, a study found that 53% of students don’t share their true thoughts online because of surveillance, and 77% say they’re more careful about what they search online[3]. After all, students aren’t dumb; they know when they’re being tracked, and would rather censor their own behaviors than potentially deal with their messages or searches being flagged. The study states:

Systematic monitoring of online activity can reveal sensitive information about students’ personal lives, such as their sexual orientation, or cause a chilling effect on their free expression, political organizing, or discussion of sensitive issues such as mental health[3].

Because of the surveillance, students are scared to have conversations about tough topics. This causes students to avoid talking about them at all to avoid potential punishment from schools.

In addition to the psychological effects, surveillance software disproportionately harms minority students as well. Artificial intelligence programs are more likely to flag language spoken by Black students[4]. This is because of the lack of minority voices during the training of the AI, and the lack of diversity in the AI field in general[5]. This issue is exasperated by the fact that Black and Hispanic students use school devices at a higher rate than white students. Additionally, surveillance AI targets LGBTQ students as well, by flagging innocent words like “gay” and “lesbian[5].” Ultimately, it’s clear that student monitoring software does not judge every student equally.

Finally, vulnerabilities found in these software programs increase the risk of data breaches and other privacy incidents. In 2020, ProctorU, a software that monitors students during tests, was breached by cybercriminals, resulting in the leak of over 440,000 students’ emails, passwords, addresses, and phone numbers[6]. More concerningly, in 2021, researchers found vulnerabilities in Netop, another student monitoring software. In this case, they found a bug that could allow hackers to install malware, or even gain access to students’ webcams[7]. At the end of the day, software like this is just another way for cybercriminals to make a quick buck while wreaking digital havoc.

Can Safety and Privacy Coexist?

Here’s the thing: Keeping tabs on students isn’t a bad thing. In fact, that’s practically the entire purpose of a school. But as education becomes more digitized, there ought to be a balance between keeping students safe and respecting their privacy. Of course, some tracking is reasonable. Kids shouldn’t be playing games during instruction, and tracking software allows schools to see who isn’t paying attention. But monitoring students at home? At that point, students feel watched all day, thus less likely to type their true feelings. And making students feel like they have to constantly hide their true beliefs and feelings isn’t a recipe for success. Safety and privacy can coexist, but right now, there are too many severe consequences associated with student monitoring software to make the sacrifice of privacy worth it.

About AXEL

No matter if you work in education, law, or business, cybercrime poses a threat to your industry. Thankfully, AXEL makes it easy to protect yourself from the threat of ransomware and data breaches. At AXEL, we believe that privacy is a human right and that your information deserves the best protection. That’s why we created AXEL Go. AXEL Go uses military-grade encryption, blockchain technology, and decentralized servers to ensure it’s the most secure file transfer software on the market. Whether you need to transfer large files or send files online, AXEL Go is the best cloud storage solution. If you’re ready to try the most secure file-sharing app for PC and mobile devices, get two free weeks of AXEL Go here.

[1] Crispin, Jessa. “American Schools Gave Kids Laptops during the Pandemic. Then They Spied on Them | Jessa Crispin.” The Guardian. Guardian News and Media, October 11, 2021. https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/oct/11/us-students-digital-surveillance-schools

[2] Haskins, Caroline. “Revealed: How One Company Surveils Everything Kids Do and Say in School.” BuzzFeed News. BuzzFeed News, November 3, 2019. https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/carolinehaskins1/gaggle-school-surveillance-technology-education

[3] Hankerson, DeVan, Cody Venzke, Elizabeth Laird, Hugh Grant-Chapman, and Dhanaraj Thakur. “Online and Observed.” CDT.org. Center for Democracy and Technology, September 2021. https://cdt.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Online-and-Observed-Student-Privacy-Implications-of-School-Issued-Devices-and-Student-Activity-Monitoring-Software.pdf

[4] Chung, Anna. “How Automated Tools Discriminate against Black Language.” MIT Center for Civic Media, January 24, 2019. https://civic.mit.edu/2019/01/24/how-automated-tools-discriminate-against-black-language/

[5] Kshetri, Nir. “School Surveillance of Students via Laptops May Do More Harm than Good.” The 74 Million, January 19, 2022. https://www.the74million.org/article/school-surveillance-of-students-via-laptops-may-do-more-harm-than-good/

[6] Abrams, Lawrence. “ProctorU Confirms Data Breach after Database Leaked Online.” BleepingComputer. BleepingComputer, August 9, 2020. https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/proctoru-confirms-data-breach-after-database-leaked-online/

[7] McCracken, Harry. “Popular Student Monitoring Software Could Have Exposed Thousands to Hacks.” Fast Company. Fast Company, October 15, 2021. https://www.fastcompany.com/90686770/netop-student-monitoring-software-hack

What Does Cyberwarfare Look Like? Just Ask Ukraine.

Since March of last year, Russia has been deploying troops close to the Russia-Ukraine border [1]. While troop movement within a nation is typically normal, Russia’s relationship with Ukraine is anything but. Since 2014, Russia has aggressively shown its desire to annex Ukrainian territory, starting with its occupation of Crimea, a territory that was formerly part of Ukraine, but mostly comprised of people of Russian ethnicity. However, it soon became clear that Crimea was just the beginning for Moscow’s leaders. Following Russia’s occupation of Crimea in 2014, the country began to use unique, digital strategies to destabilize Ukraine.

Beginning in 2015, Russia has engaged in flagrant cyberwarfare with Ukraine. And these attacks weren’t just data breaches and ransomware attacks; they’ve affected nearly every resident of Ukraine. Ultimately, the Russia-Ukraine conflict could be a sneak peek of how war is waged in the future.

Hackers Target Ukraine

Following Russia’s annexation of Crimea, Ukraine saw relative calm for almost two years. However, in December 2015, Russia launched an effective, atypical attack. On December 23, a Russian cyber-military unit, “Sandworm,” attacked Ukraine’s power grid, and knocked out electricity to over 200,000 Ukrainians.[2] Thankfully, power was restored to most places within six hours. Although a few hours without electricity isn’t exactly a devastating attack, it was undoubtedly worrying. After all, this was the first-ever confirmed hack that took down a power grid.[2] Additionally, power grid control centers were still not fully operational over two months after the attack, highlighting the sheer strength and organization of the attack.

Unfortunately, this was not the only cyberattack that Russia has executed on Ukrainians. One year later, in December 2016, Russia again attacked Ukraine’s power grid.[3] They quickly followed up by targeting Ukrainian banks and state-owned industries in June 2017.[4] Following this major attack, Russia seemed to calm down, and tensions actually diffused for a few years. However, this changed in early 2022. As Russia began to mobilize its troops toward the Ukraine border, Moscow launched another cyberattack. This time, Russians were able to take down over 70 Ukrainian government websites, along with a message that warned Ukrainians to “Prepare for the worst.”[5]

Although Russia launched multiple effective cyberattacks, many cybersecurity experts believe Russian President Vladimir Putin could have ordered the attacks to be so much worse. After all, Ukraine’s 2016 power grid outage only lasted for about an hour. This made some believe that Russia was using Ukraine as a “testbed” for refining cyberattacks that could be used globally[3]. No matter Russia’s ultimate purpose, these cyberattacks show a glimpse of Russia’s unique military strategy.

Disinformation Campaigns

In addition to cyberattacks, Russia has also used the Internet to sew instability within Ukraine as well. When Russia invaded Crimea in 2014, the country used state media and social media to sway ethnic Russians in Ukraine to support the annexation.[6] These accounts falsely alleged that Western forces manipulated Ukrainian protests, and also fabricated stories of Ukrainian soldier misconduct. Using this disinformation, Russia was able to gain enough support to annex Crimea with (relatively) little pushback.

If these disinformation efforts sound familiar, well, they are. Russia used similar techniques to meddle in the United States’ 2016 presidential election.[6] It’s a sinister, yet successful strategy for promoting Russian interests. With the emergence of the Internet and the popularity of social media, information warfare is relatively simple. Being able to kindle instability from thousands of miles away is a new, anxiety-inducing strategy that is being utilized in Ukraine, the United States, and other nations. Although it may not lead to traditional warfare casualties, Russia’s cyberwarfare actions have been extremely successful in promoting Putin’s interests.

What Would a Cyberwar Look Like?

When people think of cyberattacks, most think of data breaches and ransomware attacks. Damaging, yes, but they typically don’t harm anyone outside of the affected business and its customers. Cyberwarfare is very different. While Russia’s power grid attacks on Ukraine were effective, they were not nearly as devastating as they could have been. If Russia chooses to execute full-strength cyberattacks, the consequences could be deadly. In this scenario, Russia could shut off most of the country’s electricity, disable heat in the middle of winter, and shut down Ukraine’s military communications.[7] A cyberattack like this could make it astonishingly easy for Russia to successfully invade Ukraine. While an attack of this magnitude has not been undertaken by Russia or any other nation, the possibility of one is undoubtedly concerning. Full-fledged cyberwarfare is something the world has never seen, but the possibility of it increases every day.

Of course, it’s naive to assume that Russia is the only country preparing for cyberwarfare. The United States certainly has the capability to defend itself against cyberwarfare, and the ability to execute offensive cyberattacks. In fact, the United States was one of the first nations to engage in an act of cyberwarfare. In 2010, the U.S. and Israel jointly infected Iran’s nuclear infrastructure with the Stuxnet computer worm.[8] This attack crippled Iran’s nuclear program, highlighting just how successful cyberattacks can be.

When it comes to cyberwarfare, we really don’t know what the rules are yet. If Russia attacks another nation’s electricity or heat, indirectly leading to civilian deaths, is that a war crime? Or is remotely targeting infrastructure fair game? There are dozens of questions that haven’t been answered. Unfortunately, we may learn these answers during a future cyberwar. Whether this new kind of war is waged between Russia and Ukraine, the U.S. and China, or some other combination of unfriendly nations, we know the consequences of cyberwarfare will be severe.

About AXEL

Cybercrime is an ever-present threat. Thankfully, AXEL makes it easy to protect yourself from ransomware and data breaches. At AXEL, we believe that privacy is a human right, and that your information deserves the best protection. That’s why we created AXEL Go. AXEL Go uses 256-bit encryption, blockchain technology and decentralized servers to ensure it’s the most secure file transfer software on the market. Whether you need to transfer large files or send files online, AXEL Go is the best cloud storage solution. If you’re ready to try the most secure file-sharing app for PC and mobile devices, get two free weeks of AXEL Go here.

[1] Roth, Andrew. “EU and UK Pledge Backing to Ukraine after Russian Military Buildup.” The Guardian. Guardian News and Media, April 6, 2021. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/apr/05/eu-sounds-alarm-at-russian-troops-ukraine-border-moves

[2] Zetter, Kim. “Inside the Cunning, Unprecedented Hack of Ukraine’s Power Grid.” Wired. Conde Nast, March 3, 2016. https://www.wired.com/2016/03/inside-cunning-unprecedented-hack-ukraines-power-grid/

[3] Zetter, Kim. “The Ukrainian Power Grid Was Hacked Again.” VICE, January 10, 2017. https://www.vice.com/en/article/bmvkn4/ukrainian-power-station-hacking-december-2016-report

[4] Polityuk, Pavel, and Alessandra Prentice. “Ukrainian Banks, Electricity Firm Hit by Fresh Cyber Attack.” Reuters. Thomson Reuters, June 27, 2017. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-ukraine-cyber-attacks-idUSKBN19I1IJ

[5] “Ukraine Cyber-Attack: Russia to Blame for Hack, Says Kyiv.” BBC News. BBC, January 14, 2022. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-59992531

[6] Merchant, Nomaan. “US Tries to Name and Shame Russian Disinformation on Ukraine.” ABC News. ABC News Network, January 28, 2022. https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory/us-shame-russian-disinformation-ukraine-82526617

[7] Miller, Maggie. “Russian Invasion of Ukraine Could Redefine Cyber Warfare.” POLITICO, January 28, 2022. https://www.politico.com/news/2022/01/28/russia-cyber-army-ukraine-00003051

[8] Melman, Yossi. “’Computer Virus in Iran Actually Targeted Larger Nuclear Facility’.” Haaretz.com. Haaretz, September 28, 2010. https://www.haaretz.com/1.5118389.

National Technology Day: How Tech has Changed the Way We Live

What was life like twenty years ago? What technology did we use? How did we get work done in 2002? While twenty years may seem like a relatively short period of time, our everyday lives have drastically changed over the past two decades. We went from flip phones to iPhones, from CDs to music and video streaming, from printed-out MapQuest papers to instant GPS directions. In the past twenty years, modern technology has changed nearly every aspect of our lives. 

Because of the incredible technological advances we’ve seen in the past twenty years, AXEL founded National Technology Day, a holiday celebrated every year on January 6th. On National Technology Day, we encourage everyone to reflect on the advances made in business, culture, and entertainment. From maximizing efficiency at the office to sharing your own media online, technology has changed the way we live and will continue to change our lives in the future. While it’s unclear what the world will look like in twenty years, we do know one thing: Technology will continue to innovate.

With that said, here are a few ways how recent technological advances have radically impacted our everyday lives:

How Tech Changed Public Health

Undoubtedly, one of the greatest technological triumphs in public health in the past twenty years has been the widespread use of messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines. Most COVID-19 vaccines are mRNA vaccines, and with billions of doses administered in one year, these high-tech vaccines have saved countless lives. But how are mRNA vaccines different from traditional vaccines? With an mRNA vaccine, a weakened pathogen isn’t injected into your body like with traditional vaccines. An mRNA vaccine delivers “coded” mRNA to your immune cells, and using that code, your immune cells can produce proteins that are found on the specific pathogen [1].

The development of mRNA vaccines was made possible by technological advances in the pharmaceutical industry. Although they are relatively new today, mRNA vaccines have been studied and theorized for decades. Finally, modern technology caught up with researchers, and a new soldier in the war on infectious diseases was created.

While vaccines have certainly had a massive impact on the world, they aren’t the only way that technology has changed public health. An obvious example is the rise of fitness and health trackers. Today, about one in five Americans use a fitness tracker and corresponding app [2]. With these trackers, users can track their steps taken, calories burned, steps climbed, blood pressure, sleep quality, and dozens of other metrics. While research on their effectiveness has been mixed, fitness trackers give people fun, convenient ways to check on their health [3].

How Tech Changed Education

If the pandemic taught us one thing, it’s that technology allows us to be connected, even when we can’t be physically present together. This was particularly apparent when schools across the world were closed and classes were taught online. Although there are certainly valid criticisms of e-learning, the fact that instruction was able to continue in the midst of a pandemic highlights just how much technology allowed education to evolve. Now, almost every lecture or assignment can be completed online, ensuring that education can continue even after future pandemics or natural disasters.

While e-learning is certainly new, the advancement of technology has always correlated with expanded access to education [4]. Think about it: 500 years ago, the only educational materials were books, and books were only available to the extremely well-off. However, the technological innovation of the printing press made books far more available for middle and lower-class people. Now, thanks to the Internet, there are millions of educational websites and videos available to all. Today, a student can learn calculus or biology from reliable sources on their own time, for free. While some may criticize technology for “dumbing down” our youth, it’s a simple fact: Technological progress leads to greater access to education.

How Tech Changed Business

Even before the pandemic, technology was radically changing the modern office. One of the biggest changes in the past twenty years has been the way employees share information with each other. Although email existed twenty years ago, it was certainly in its infancy, and when files needed to be shared, physical documents were printed off and delivered. Now, most documents are shared electronically, without the need for paper and ink, helping to save businesses time and money. Outside of file-sharing, even the way workers communicate with each other has greatly changed. Today, software applications like Slack make it easy for employees to communicate without anyone being left out of the loop. Technological advances have made office communication digital and instantaneous, making the necessary transition to remote work during the pandemic relatively simple.

Outside of office communication, technology has allowed businesses to increase efficiency in nearly every department. From resumé software to digital marketing, technology has greatly changed the way businesses operate. Unfortunately, this also means that the businesses that haven’t embraced technology are at risk of going under. After all, if your business doesn’t have a digital presence, such as social media or a simple website, it may as well not exist. 

Technology has fundamentally changed the way work gets done in the United States, and it’s not done changing either. In twenty years, Mark Zuckerberg’s vision of the “Metaverse” may become our everyday office. One thing is known: If it can save money, businesses will continue to test and use innovative modern technology.

How Tech Changed Cybersecurity

Twenty years ago, “cybersecurity” was little more than simply having a password. Unfortunately, as technology has progressed, so have cybercriminals. Today, features like encryption, multi-factor authorization, and artificial intelligence are the norm when it comes to cybersecurity. 

It’s no coincidence that the technological advancement of computers and their related technologies is correlated with the number of cybercriminal attacks [5].

In 2002, cybercriminals mostly utilized phishing attacks to make their money. Cybercriminals used fake emails and pop-ups to trick users into divulging their names, addresses, credit card information, or even Social Security numbers. Thankfully, most of these phishing attacks were easy to identify [5]. However, cybercriminals quickly learned even more efficient methods of making money. Today, ransomware is the main tool that cybercriminal organizations use to wreak havoc around the world. Much more efficient than individual phishing emails, ransomware can shut down an entire business, forcing executives to pay millions in order to get their data back. Put simply, as technology has advanced, so too have cybercriminals. It’s an unfortunate fact, but all hope is not lost.

While cybercriminals are taking advantage of modern technology for a quick buck, more savory organizations are also working to prioritize security. Even AXEL is utilizing modern cybersecurity technology in innovative ways to protect users. One of AXEL’s patents, US11159306B2, describes a token identification system that allows users to perform transactions privately, while making the transaction verification public. This technology prioritizes the digital privacy of users, secures the specific aspects of the transaction, and offers public verification. Patents like this are being presented, approved, and utilized every day, creating a more private, secure Internet. So while cybercriminals may be quick to exploit technological flaws, an army of individuals and businesses are ready to fight for digital security.

About AXEL

Technology will continue to advance, and our lives will become more digitized than ever before. That’s why data security and user privacy remain as important as ever. At AXEL we believe that privacy is a human right, and that your information deserves the best protection. That’s why we created AXEL Go. AXEL Go uses military-grade encryption, blockchain technology and decentralized servers to ensure it’s the best file transfer software on the market. Whether you need cloud video storage or cloud file management, AXEL Go is the secure file hosting solution. If you’re ready to try the best file sharing app for PC and mobile devices, try two free weeks of AXEL Go here.

[1] Dolgin, Elie. “The Tangled History of mRNA Vaccines.” Nature News. Nature Publishing Group, September 14, 2021. https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-021-02483-w

[2] “19% Of Americans Use Wearable Fitness Trackers and MHealth Apps.” Mercom Capital Group, October 13, 2021. https://mercomcapital.com/90-americans-wearable-mhealth-apps/#:~:text=According%20to%20a%20new%20survey,or%20tablet%20app%20(32%25)

[3] Marks, Adam. “Do Exercise Trackers Make You Healthier?” Ace.edu, February 16, 2021. https://www.ace.edu/blog/post/2021/02/16/do-exercise-trackers-make-you-healthier

[4] “How Has Technology Changed Education?” Purdue University Online.. https://online.purdue.edu/blog/education/how-has-technology-changed-education

[5] Acharjee, Sauvik. “The Evolution of Cybercrime: An Easy Guide (2021).” Jigsaw Academy, February 13, 2021. https://www.jigsawacademy.com/blogs/cyber-security/evolution-of-cybercrime/

Self-Driving Cars are Here. Are Businesses, Consumers, and Lawyers Ready?

The introduction of the automobile changed not only American transportation, but American culture as well. While automobiles had existed since the late 1800s, they were typically very expensive and unreliable. However, in 1908, Ford released the Model T, an automobile made for the middle class. Sold for a measly USD $850 (a less measly USD $23,000 in today’s dollars), the Model T rapidly gained popularity in the United States [1]. Ultimately, the introduction of affordable mass-market automobiles led to the car-centric transportation system the United States has today. For over a century, this system has persisted, with wide interstate highways and large parking lots dominating American cityscapes.

But even after a century of automobile innovation, relatively little has changed about the fundamentals of driving. At least one passenger must control the car at all times, and if they lose control, even for a split-second, there could be disastrous consequences. Now, in 2021, those fundamentals are beginning to change. With massive tech companies like Uber and Amazon investing heavily in this emerging technology [2], it’s fair to wonder: How soon will self-driving cars become the norm? And how will this eventual change affect tech, law, and culture?

History of Autonomous Vehicles

One of the first autonomous vehicles came just a few years after the popularization of the automobile. However, this car was far from a technological masterpiece, closer to a life-size RC car than an automotive revelation. In 1925, electrical engineer Francis Houdina paraded a driverless sedan with a massive antenna down the streets of New York City. He controlled the car via remote control in a trailing vehicle. Ironically, the car crashed into another automobile full of journalists during the parade [3]. Despite the embarrassing end to the initial showcase, radio-controlled cars became tourist attractions for the next decade. Spectators were amazed by driverless cars, and automobile companies noticed. In 1935, Chevrolet even advertised the benefits of self-driving cars in an automobile safety video [4]. Even when mass-market automobiles were just beginning to flourish, a future filled with autonomous vehicles was dreamt by consumers and automakers alike. However, while automobile companies continued research and development into self-driving cars, it amounted to little else but prototypes and tourist gimmicks.

Beginning in the early 2010s, these prototypes and gimmicks began to have legitimate functionality. Cars manufacturers began to include features that were previously limited to autonomous vehicle prototypes. For example, in 2013, Mercedes-Benz released a luxury car featuring automatic braking, adaptive cruise control and parking assistance [5]. While this tech was exclusive to high-end cars years ago, features like parking assistance and automatic braking are regularly included in more affordable cars today. However, the biggest step toward a future with self-driving cars was made by Tesla. The electric-vehicle company introduced its “autopilot” software in 2015, allowing drivers to take their hands off the wheel while driving [6]. While Tesla’s autopilot feature isn’t fully autonomous, it is one of the first auto manufacturers to produce a mass-market vehicle with significant autonomous capabilities.

Why Autonomous Could be the Future

First and foremost, auto manufacturers are embracing self-driving cars because of their safety. Put simply, humans are not better drivers than robots. Self-driving cars would be able to make split-second decisions quicker than humans. Additionally, an autonomous vehicle future could wipe out incapacitated driving, which makes up 10% of all car crashes [7]. Altogether, one study states that a future with fully autonomous vehicles could cut traffic accidents by at least 34% [7]. While 34% fewer crashes may not seem like a massive decrease, it could have life-saving effects. There were an estimated 36,120 car crash fatalities in 2019 in the United States [8]. If 34% of those crashes were averted by autonomous vehicles, it could save over 12,000 lives each year.

Finally, consumers are drawn to autonomous vehicles because of their convenience. Self-driving cars could put an end to the stresses and anxieties of driving. After all, driving has always required the driver’s complete attention; to the point where eating while driving is heavily discouraged, and texting while driving is illegal in most states. Driving requires full, undivided attention. And for heavy-traffic areas or long road trips, this can be inconvenient for drivers. A future where drivers can send emails, talk to passengers or even nap is incredibly appealing to most drivers. While fully autonomous vehicles are still a long way away, it’s clear why consumers are interested in self-driving cars as well.

Why Autonomous Cars Could Flounder

One of the biggest obstacles facing automakers isn’t one of technological capability, but legal culpability. Right now, in almost every car crash, one of the affected drivers is at fault. Most importantly, the at-fault driver is often on the hook for financial penalties. But if all vehicles are autonomous, and there’s a crash, who is responsible? Because we are nowhere near this level of automation yet, we simply don’t know what the law will be in the era of self-driving cars. Could auto corporations be found at fault? If they are, why would companies continue to make autonomous vehicles if each one could mire the company in a lawsuit? Simply put, there are massive legal questions regarding autonomous vehicles that we don’t know the answer to, and won’t know until self-driving cars are much more integrated into society.

Finally, concern among consumers regarding privacy could cause the future of self-driving cars to sputter. Autonomous vehicles could become yet another device that collects and sells your personal data to advertisers. Even worse, these self-driving cars would have access to loads of unique data points, including travel histories and voice recordings. And because self-driving cars require software updates for new roads, even cars could become subject to ransomware attacks and other cybercrime. While autonomous vehicles can offer unparalleled convenience for their users, they can also force new, invasive forms of surveillance.

Stay Safe with AXEL Go

While AXEL Go can’t protect your autonomous car from ransomware (yet), it can protect your most important files from cybercrime. Offering industry-leading encryption and decentralized blockchain technology, AXEL Go is the best way to protect yourself or your business from data breaches and cybercrime. With AXEL Go, there’s no compromise between security and privacy rights. After all, our business is protecting your data, not collecting it. If you’re ready to try the most secure file-sharing and storage software, get two free weeks of AXEL Go here. 

[1] History.com Editors. “Model T.” History.com. A&E Television Networks, April 26, 2010. https://www.history.com/topics/inventions/model-t

[2] Palmer, Annie. “Amazon Zoox Unveils Self-Driving Robotaxi.” CNBC. CNBC, December 14, 2020. https://www.cnbc.com/2020/12/14/amazons-self-driving-company-zoox-unveils-autonomous-robotaxi.html

[3] Engelking, Carl. “The ‘Driverless’ Car Era Began More than 90 Years Ago.” Discover Magazine. Discover Magazine, May 17, 2019. https://www.discovermagazine.com/technology/the-driverless-car-era-began-more-than-90-years-ago

[4] Chevrolet Presents: The Safest Place. YouTube. YouTube, 2013. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cilh7br-P80

[5] Ingraham, Nathan. “Mercedes-Benz Shows off Self-Driving Car Technology in Its New $100,000 S-Class.” The Verge. The Verge, May 18, 2013. https://www.theverge.com/2013/5/18/4341656/mercedes-benz-shows-off-self-driving-car-technology

[6] Golson, Jordan. “Volvo Autonomous Car Engineer Calls Tesla’s Autopilot a ‘Wannabe’.” The Verge. The Verge, April 27, 2016. https://www.theverge.com/2016/4/27/11518826/volvo-tesla-autopilot-autonomous-self-driving-car

[7] Baldwin, Roberto. “IIHS Study: Autonomous Cars Won’t Avoid Majority of Vehicle Crashes.” Car and Driver. Car and Driver, November 10, 2020. https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a32783046/iihs-autonomous-cars-not-as-safe-study/

[8] Media, NHTSA. “Early Estimates of 2019 Motor Vehicle Traffic Data Show Reduced Fatalities for Third Consecutive Year.” NHTSA. NHTSA, May 5, 2020. https://www.nhtsa.gov/press-releases/early-estimates-2019-motor-vehicle-traffic-data-show-reduced-fatalities-third