Due to the increase of real-time data and information sharing, Internet of Things (IOT) capabilities are revolutionizing the way we live and are reshaping our security landscape. S&T is making every effort to engage solution-makers to develop products that incorporate the IOT to help make our nation and communities safer and more resilient and make public safety sectors more effective.
Last week, my Deputy Under Secretary for Science and Technology, Dr. Robert Griffin, spoke at the IoT Security Conference 2015 in Boston on this topic. He encouraged participants to think differently about how IoT technologies can provide new capabilities for making our communities safer and more resilient. Based on neighborhood services, assets, and risk environments, he focused on the importance of building IoT security from the ground-up. Optimizing IoT capabilities is linked to how effective IoT systems are operationalized in different settings and how well the IoT community realizes the market potential to invest in security solutions that keep pace with changes in technology and evolving threats.
The IOT Security 2015 conference manager said Dr. Griffin’s illustration of how IoT technologies are impacting the way we live set the tone for the opening day of the conference – this is exactly what we like to hear! We want innovators intrigued and interested in how they can develop technology and solutions to help us get ahead of the next big threat.
For example, how do we use IoT sensors to provide pre-indicator information to help communities get ahead of potential flu outbreaks? Picture a typical classroom. What kind of unobtrusive sensor could be developed that, when kids get sick, the classroom feels it quickly and alerts appropriate officials. With IoT sensors, that data could then – in real time -- be available not only for the entire school to act, but also neighborhood supermarkets, pharmacies, hospitals, EMS services, and nursing homes. Adjustments and precautions could be made to keep important services uninterrupted and ensure resources are on-hand. Having information available for multiple players informs decisions that mitigates potential flu outbreaks and contributes to how communities protect and serve their citizens.
The implementation of S&T’s Visionary Goals is enabling homeland security operators and industry innovators, including, the startups, to take a holistic approach towards how IoT sensors, instruments, and wearable tech, could be deployed in our neighborhoods. Noting that 81 percent of the world’s population live in urban areas where utilities, water, energy, transportation, banking, and public safety, will increasingly depend on IoT solutions, Dr. Griffin challenged conference participants to work collectively to make IoT capabilities operational, promote data standards and testing, and facilitate the adoption of non-propriety systems, which will build trusted networks during preparedness, response, and recovery, calls for action.
Together we can work toward a more productive, innovative future. Think differently with S&T!
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Dr. Reginald Brothers
Under Secretary for Science and Technology