October 20th 2026
Our recent webinar offered valuable insights into the use of everyday technology in social care, including smart speakers, video doorbells, messaging apps and wearables. These tools can support independence and communication, but they can also create unexpected risks around privacy, consent, confidentiality and cyber security. Drawing on the discussion, we have produced practical top tips to help care providers use them safely and responsibly.
Everyday Tech, Hidden Risks: Cyber security and data protection, held on 15 October 2026, brought together Emma Nichols of ECN Consulting, Christopher Ede of Brandon Trust, Alice Dunning of the University of Sheffield, Sam Cattell of Digital Care Hub and chair Katie Thorn, Director of Innovation at Digital Care Hub.
For providers considering new technology, the starting point should be the outcome a person wants. Emma Nichols used the example of Sam, who wants to answer her own front door but feels anxious and has mobility difficulties. A smart doorbell could help, but only if accessibility, connectivity, consent, privacy and the effect on housemates are considered. As Emma said:
“Success isn’t installing the technology; it’s making a meaningful difference to someone’s life.”
The discussion also showed why apparently harmless technology needs careful thought. Christopher Ede described a smart speaker that activated without its wake words, attributed his daughter’s comment to him and retained it. In a supported-living setting, a similar error could produce a false medication record or alert. He also shared an example of a photograph posted in a work WhatsApp group that inadvertently showed a MAR chart containing personal information. Automatic downloads meant copies could reach personal phones and cloud backups immediately.
Research shared by Alice Dunning reinforced that “access did not equal digital inclusion”. People need accessible information, confidence and ongoing support as well as a device. Sam Cattell advised staff to treat smart technology “like there’s another person in the room” and to review risks whenever a device, supplier or software changes.
The practical advice is clear: plan beyond the device. Consider accounts, passwords, privacy settings, connectivity, updates, maintenance, staff training and what happens if the technology fails. Revisit consent and risk assessments as circumstances change, and use approved work systems rather than informal messaging groups or personal devices.
Find out more: Watch the webinar recording and access the transcript, slides, key messages and our practical top tips for care providers on the Digital Care Hub webinar page.
Part of our Digital Care in Focus: Cyber Security theme for October.
#DigitalCareinFocus
View all News