Since we’re becoming more aware of the increased need for cleaner energy, the tech industry is rapidly expanding its supply to cater to more eco-friendly choices and habits.
As ExpressVPN’s green tech list suggests, there are alternative versions of gadgets we use daily that can significantly decrease our carbon footprint and get us a step closer to living a more sustainable lifestyle.
However, there are two sides to every coin.
While the switch to green tech is undoubtedly smart, and the industry is expected to grow even more rapidly in the upcoming years, some aspects of this change need more attention.
According to Deloitte’s report, 53% of companies do not consider cybersecurity when developing green tech solutions. At the same time, many green tech companies use cutting-edge technologies that need more testing before being implemented on a larger scale. These circumstances make green technology a perfect cyberattack target.
Since most green tech devices people commonly use are connected to the internet, neglecting cybersecurity can be extremely reckless. Poor cybersecurity can expose users’ sensitive data and make them more prone to cyberattacks.
Internet of Things (IoT) security
IoT devices are nowadays an indispensable part of modern homes, and according to Statista’s predictions, there will be more than 29 billion connected devices by 2030. As our daily lives become more comfortable with the assistance of gadgets and tools, an increased number of interconnected devices leads to more information being transmitted and shared. Consequently, it can increase the risk of cyber-attacks and data leaks. While some IoT device manufacturers test various data protection methods, green IoT, while being a fourth runner in the innovation field, still lags behind.
How to live a more sustainable life and stay protected
Look for green tech with a proper cybersecurity model in place
Even though it may require time and patience, research in depth what data protection methods the supplier uses and how they manage user data before getting a new green tech device.
While the majority of companies nowadays store user data simply because they can, and we have little to no influence on what happens to our sensitive information once we share it with someone online, familiarize yourself with applicable data protection laws and regulations.
Monitor your digital footprint
Going green implies understanding and effectively managing your digital footprint as well. Analyze who has access to your sensitive data and eliminate your information from high-risk environments. Furthermore, start entrusting your data only with reliable sites and services.
Manage your data storing options
After understanding what your data is being used for, try to minimize the amount of information you collect and share with others. Stop subscribing to unnecessary newsletters and services and declutter your digital space to reduce data leakage risk.
Encrypt your data
While some services already utilize the power of encryption, others are less familiar with the benefits of this technology. Luckily, this is something you can control. A virtual private network (VPN) can encrypt your data in traffic to make it indecipherable to any third party and better protect your sensitive information.
Conclusion
Even though green technology is advancing rapidly and can make our lives more sustainable, there is much room for improvement. Cybersecurity is one of the most commonly overlooked aspects of green tech that must be solved quickly if we want to implement sustainable technological solutions at a larger scale. Until green tech manufacturers take a more comprehensive approach toward data protection, users must take their cybersecurity strategies into their own hands.