The internet of things (IoT) enables physical objects such as lightbulbs to connect to the internet and transform them into conduits of the future.
Almost anything with network connectivity belongs to the IoT, from smart home products such as voice-controlled lightbulbs to sensors in public places, connected airports, and devices in people’s pockets.
IoT consists of billions of gadgets around the world and promises to revolutionise modern life by making our physical surroundings accessible to our digital computers.
However, there are fears that the growth of the IoT could also lead to new kinds of cyberwarfare and security threats.
Susceptible devices could be controlled by hackers, leading to consequences such as disabling every smart thermostat in the dead of winter or hacking into internet-connected pacemakers.