The technological evolution, leveraged by the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), continues transforming everyday life. One of the activities most impacted by these changes is trade, especially retail stores that seek to adapt to compete in a phygital market
Physical stores are adopting an increasing number of smart tools, that allow offering typical conveniences of online shopping, like self-service kiosks, contactless payments and stores without cashiers. These advancements improve the customer experience, in addition to optimizing internal operations, allowing small businesses to compete with e-commerce giants
This transformation generates multiple changes in people's consumption habits, impacting traditional purchasing methods. Currently, stores are redirecting their efforts to meet the new demands of customers, through the implementation of smart devices. However, Palo Alto Networks warns about the risks arising for cybersecurity
Increasing productivity with sustainability: IoT-based solutions
The technology, in addition to speeding up the shopping experience, reduces operational costs, promoting customer loyalty and increasing satisfaction. Furthermore, automation improves inventory management, allowing for quicker restocking, a more efficient customer service and self-service systems that speed up transactions, increasing productivity
IoT-based security systems strengthen monitoring against theft, while energy use is reduced through the optimization of lighting and equipment. Loss prevention technologies also help reduce waste and overproduction, promoting sustainability
According to data from Starfleet Research on best practices in retail security, 68% of companies have already implemented this technology to accelerate intelligent interaction with customers, real-time inventory management and the development of digital operations systems
In this way, productivity drives a more sustainable model, aligned with global trade trends. According to the report, 58% of retailers are implementing IoT-based energy management solutions, as interconnected lighting systems and water monitoring applications, helping companies meet their environmental responsibilities
The challenges of cybersecurity in the transformation of commerce
The proliferation of connected devices also increases the potential risk surface for cyber attacks and data breaches. The increase in intrusion techniques has made IoT devices especially vulnerable. According to the report IoT Security Best Practices of Top-Performing Organizations in Retail, only in 2022 did ransomware attacks increase by 67% compared to the previous year, highlighting the challenges faced by the sector
Governments around the world are responding with regulations designed to improve safety in this area, how the IoT Cybersecurity Improvement Act, in the United States, e o Cybersecurity Act da União Europeia. However, these regulations, in isolation, are not sufficient to face the multifactorial challenges
How to boost security in retail
With the increasing variety and quantity of smart devices being implemented in companies, the precise tracking of each of them is essential. This visibility detects unauthorized devices and monitors suspicious activities, ensuring that merchants can protect their networks against potential threats
Marcos Oliveira, Country Manager of Palo Alto Networks in Brazil, states that it is essential to use advanced AI and machine learning to detect and prevent potential threats, before they can exploit vulnerabilities in devices: “The proactive approach helps reduce the risk of data breaches and ensures that systems remain secure”
It is necessary to manage a centralized platform, where robust security policies can be applied to all devices, regardless of the manufacturer or operating system. In the same way, cryptography and data protection must be priorities for businesses, since attackers can easily intercept and exploit them, complete
The potential for digitization and automation in the retail sector is enormous and offers new opportunities for growth and innovation. However, the promise carries significant risks, if companies are not adequately protected. As technology evolves, security solutions must keep up, reducing the threats that can compromise the business operations of any organization, regardless of its size. Furthermore, it is mandatory to ensure the protection of user and customer data. In periods of high commercial activity, like the December celebrations, it is advisable to anticipate and protect oneself in a solid way
