The Societal Implications of 5G-enabled IoT on Privacy and Data Security

Abstract

The rapid expansion of 5G networks has accelerated the adoption of the Internet of Things (IoT), creating an ecosystem where billions of interconnected devices continuously collect and transmit data. While this integration promises transformative advancements across sectors such as healthcare, smart cities, and industrial automation, it also introduces significant challenges to privacy and data security. This study examines the societal implications of 5G-enabled IoT, focusing on issues related to data collection, surveillance, user consent, and regulatory frameworks. Our findings highlight a growing public awareness of privacy risks, particularly as the types and volume of data collected ranging from personal and behavioral to environmental and health data continue to increase. The study emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive data protection policies, robust security frameworks, and improved user education to address these evolving challenges. In conclusion, this research underscores the importance of balancing technological progress with the protection of individual privacy rights to foster a secure, ethical, and sustainable 5G-enabled IoT environment.