Connected devices are all around us; in the cars we drive, the smart thermostats we install in our homes and the smartphones we always have within reach. Take fitness trackers for example; according to Forrester Research, more than 20 percent of U.S. adults use a wearable device on a daily basis. These devices are counting our steps, monitoring our sleep patterns and helping us to live a healthier life. They’re also commercializing the Internet of Things (IoT).

IoT is changing everything from the way we deliver healthcare and receive in-home entertainment to how manufacturing facilities and other critical infrastructure run. Organizations around the globe are embracing IoT to listen to their data, analyze patterns and trends and make real-time, autonomous decisions at a massive scale. If the rise of these connected devices tells us anything, it’s that big data is here to stay - and there’s more to IoT than just being connected.

As more devices make their way into our homes and offices - and we begin to reap the benefits in our personal lives and careers - it’s also important to take note of the risks that come with the Internet of Things. In fact, Gartner predicts that by 2020, more than 25 percent of identified enterprise attacks will involve IoT, though IoT will account for only 10 percent of IT security budgets.

On Thursday, October 20, WIT will be hosting an interactive panel discussion featuring Laurie Wiggins (CEO and Founder, Synsenex Inc.), Thomas McDermott (Deputy Assistant Secretary, Cyber Policy, U.S. Department of Homeland Security), Stephanie Ellenberg (AVP of Product Development, AT&T), and Camille Tuutti (Executive Editor, NextGov). The panel will focus on the emerging trends associated with IoT and the risks technology professionals need to keep an eye out for. These tech leaders will be sharing tips and tricks around:

• How to protect yourself in an increasingly connected world;
• What firms are doing to address the rapidly changing security landscape;
• What benefits can be expected from IoT;
• What companies need to do to protect their critical corporate data.

The event will be held at the Gannett building at 7950 Jones Branch Drive in McLean, VA from 6:00 - 8:30 PM. For more information and registration details, visit womenintechnology.org.