Last week’s poll: connectivity and security

Last week we asked Engineer readers if they believe that connected devices – whether they're “Internet of Things” in the domestic setting, or industry 4.0 in manufacturing – represent an advantage or an unacceptable risk.

Of the 340 responses, 61 per cent took the view that connected devices are unsafe, and 14 per cent thought otherwise, believing connected devices to be safe.

A further eight per cent of respondents were split equally between the options of connected devices being safe in the home but not in industry, and connected devices being safe in industry but not the home. The remaining 17 per cent couldn't find a fit and chose the 'none of the above option'.

In the debate that followed, Sandy said that each domestic application should be considered with regard for the need, adding: "No-one ‘needs’ a connected fridge or even central heating controlled from a phone. Just set the timers or switch it on when you get in...Also no-one ‘needs’ a SMART meter, particularly when it’s tied to a supplier."