Industrial Internet of Things: Are the risks worth it?

This is a guest article kindly submitted to ILeadIn by John Pamflett of Mescon, published with his permission. Thanks John!

Most of us have heard of the Internet of things. The IoT is the concept of connecting devices and having them talk over the internet.
We used to dream of our fridge knowing what you have in it, and automatically ordering the milk. This concept is fast becoming an reality. Several smart phone applications already prompt you as you approach your local supermarket, that you need to pop in and top up on specific supplies. In my house we can control lights, Pond Pump and Security camera from our smart phones. The ability to track our parcel delivery is a standard service of most couriers.

The Industrial Internet of Things is a logical extension; The value of connecting sensors and devices in production and manufacturing environments is high. It has the potential for custom orders, tracking, traceability , quality control, increased efficiency, reduced maintenance , higher accountability. However connecting to manufacturing data is different. I love the concept of knowing and learning what is happening on the plant floor, but the concept of us influencing manufacture is dangerous. There are many safety issues and production logistics associated with production which most people do not understand. For example painting a light coloured car after a dark colour requires a significant, time consuming cleaning process to prevent contamination. My biggest concern it becomes possible for the innocent, as well as hackers and terrorists to initiate destructive actions such as opening the gates of a dam or to change the ingredient quantities in our food.