Wearable technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, from fitness trackers and smartwatches to virtual reality headsets and smart glasses. As the adoption of these gadgets continues to rise, so do the concerns about security and privacy. In this blog post, we will discuss the best practices for ensuring the security and privacy of your wearable devices and the data they collect.

Summary:

• Keep your devices updated with the latest firmware and software.
• Use strong, unique passwords for your accounts and devices.
• Turn off unnecessary features and restrict app permissions.
• Enable security features such as two-factor authentication and encryption.
• Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi and avoid sharing sensitive information.
• Regularly review and manage your data and privacy settings.
• Educate yourself about the privacy policies of wearable manufacturers and app developers.

Keep Your Devices Updated

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to secure your wearable devices is to keep them updated with the latest firmware and software. Manufacturers often release updates to fix security vulnerabilities and improve overall performance. Make a habit of checking for updates regularly and applying them as soon as they become available.

Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Create strong and unique passwords for your wearable device accounts, and avoid reusing the same password across multiple platforms. A strong password should be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols. Consider using a password manager to help generate and store these complex passwords securely.

Turn Off Unnecessary Features and Restrict App Permissions

Many wearable devices come with a range of features, some of which you may not need or use regularly. Disable any unnecessary features and services, especially those that rely on location tracking or data sharing, to reduce potential security risks. Additionally, review and restrict app permissions to ensure that they only have access to the data they need to function correctly.

Enable Security Features

Make use of the security features available on your wearable device, such as two-factor authentication (2FA) and encryption. 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a secondary verification method, like a fingerprint or a code sent to your phone. Encryption, on the other hand, protects your data by making it unreadable to unauthorized users.

Be Cautious When Using Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured and can expose your wearable device to potential threats. Avoid sharing sensitive information or performing critical tasks, such as online banking, when connected to public Wi-Fi. If you must use a public network, consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your data and protect your privacy.

Regularly Review and Manage Your Data and Privacy Settings

Take the time to review and manage the data collected by your wearable device and the associated apps. This includes checking your privacy settings to ensure that you're comfortable with the information being shared and stored. Delete any unnecessary data and consider using anonymized data whenever possible.

Educate Yourself about Privacy Policies

Before you go out and buy a wearable device or download an app, familiarize yourself with the manufacturer's and developer's privacy policies. Understand what data they collect, how they use it, and what measures they have in place to protect your privacy. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions about which devices and apps to use and how to configure them for optimal security.

——

Wearable devices are awesome, but they also come with potential security and privacy risks. I’m personally partial to the Oura ring, which I’ve been using for almost 2 years and get value out of on a daily basis. By considering the best privacy and security-related issues outlined above, you can use your wearables while minimizing the risks associated with their use.

Better yet, use Haekka for security awareness training and engagement to keep your security and privacy top of mind while you navigate modern, connected work and life.

‍