Wearables in Enterprise: Balancing Innovation and Security
Explore the challenges and opportunities of integrating wearable technology in enterprise environments. Learn key strategies for mitigating risks and maximizing benefits.
This article was originally published on April 18, 2016, and has been updated in 2025.
The Rise of Wearables in the Enterprise: Navigating Risks and Opportunities
The enterprise landscape is evolving rapidly, with wearable technology following closely on the heels of mobile devices. As smart phones, tablets, and BYOD initiatives become commonplace, organizations might assume they're prepared for the wearable revolution. However, the integration of devices like fitness trackers, smartwatches, and smart glasses introduces a new set of challenges that demand careful consideration.
Key Areas of Concern
Information Leaks
Smart glasses, in particular, present a unique risk due to their built-in cameras. Unlike smartphones, which are easily monitored, smart glasses can discreetly record sensitive information without detection. This capability makes it challenging to secure areas or prevent unauthorized data collection.
Security Vulnerabilities
Many wearable devices lack robust security features such as multi-factor authentication. Moreover, most are not yet supported by major Mobile Device Management (MDM) providers. To accommodate these devices, organizations may need to lower their security standards, potentially exposing their networks to breaches.
Loss of Personally Identifiable Information (PII)
Wearables often store sensitive data, including patient information in healthcare settings or employee emails and calendar entries on smartwatches. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) defines PII as "any information about an individual maintained by an agency." Loss or theft of these devices can lead to significant privacy breaches.
Privacy Violations
The ability to collect extensive health and activity data on employees and customers raises ethical concerns and potential legal issues. For example, the National Labor Act requires transparency in data collection used for performance evaluations, prohibiting covert monitoring.
Balancing Risk and Innovation
While these risks are significant, they shouldn't deter enterprises from exploring the potential of wearable technology. Instead, organizations should:
Develop comprehensive policies and procedures for wearable use
Implement strong governance frameworks
Invest in security measures tailored to wearable devices
Educate employees on responsible use and potential risks
By taking a proactive approach, companies can harness the innovative power of wearables while mitigating associated risks. The key lies in striking a balance between leveraging new technologies and maintaining robust security practices.
Looking Ahead
As wearable technology continues to evolve, enterprises must stay ahead of the curve.
Remember, the goal is not to avoid new technologies but to embrace them thoughtfully and securely. Keep experimenting, but do so with a keen eye on security and privacy.