Interview 4 travel - Real-Projects-Digitalization/RPD-Defendo GitHub Wiki

Interview:

1. Introduction

Hi, we are a team currently exploring the theme of security for our upcoming real project. While we haven’t yet settled on a specific product idea, our focus is on understanding the broader concepts, challenges, and opportunities within the realm of security.

This interview is designed to help us gain a better understanding of security. We'll be asking questions related to your experiences and views on security. The goal is to gather qualitative insights that will guide us in defining our project scope and refining our approach to tackling security-related problems.

Before we get started, could you please introduce yourself? We'd love to hear your name, your professional background, and any specific connections you may have to the theme of security, whether personal or professional if you have.

Hello! I’m a 20-year-old chemical engineering student, currently in my third year of studies. Over the past decade, I’ve noticed some incredible advancements in technology that have shaped the field of chemical engineering and many other industries.

From the rise of artificial intelligence and machine learning to innovations in sustainable energy, these developments have not only changed how we approach problem-solving but have also opened new areas for research and application. An example could be the focus on renewable energy sources that has inspired numerous projects around biofuels and energy storage systems, something I find fascinating.

During my studies, I’ve been exposed to various areas such as process design, thermodynamics, and reaction engineering. I am enjoying my experiences in labs, where I can apply theoretical knowledge to real world problems. Additionally, In terms of technology I am interested in how advancements like automation and data analytics can improve efficiency and safety in chemical processes.

2. General Understanding of Security

What does “security” mean to you in the context of your daily life/work/lifestyle?
What I understand by security is as simple as feeling safe and confident that I’m protected from harm or risks, whether in my personal life, my studies, or my online presence. As a chemical engineering student, security also includes safety in the lab— handling chemicals safely, making sure equipment works properly, and following protocols to avoid accidents. Beyond physical safety, there’s also digital security, like keeping my personal data, emails, and study resources safe from hacking or leaks. So, in a nutshell, security feels like a mix of physical, digital, and even mental safety, all of which are important for me to focus and feel secure in my daily life.

Which types of security are most important to you (e.g., physical, digital, f inancial security)? For me, physical and digital security are probably the most important. Physical security is crucial due to the hazardous materials I handle in my chemical engineering studies, where lab safety protocols are essential to prevent accidents. Digital security is also vital, as much of my academic work and personal data is stored online; securing my accounts protects me from data loss and identity theft. Financial security matters too, particularly in avoiding online scams, as I need to manage my budget carefully.

3. Current Security Challenges

What security concerns do you face in your daily life or professional context? In my daily life, digital security concerns stand out the most. Since I handle a lot of my studies, assignments, and personal communication online, I’m always a bit worried about phishing scams, account hacking, or accidentally downloading malware. I’m cautious about emails and links I don’t recognize, and I try to use strong passwords and two-factor authentication on my accounts. Losing access to my accounts or having my data stolen would be a major setback. In a professional or academic context, lab safety is a big security concern. Chemical engineering involves working with hazardous materials and equipment, so following lab protocols to avoid accidents is essential. I worry about potential spills, reactions going wrong, or equipment malfunctions, as these could lead to injury or even harm others. We’re trained to follow strict procedures, but it’s still something I’m mindful of whenever I’m in the lab.

4. Wants and Needs in Security

What problems or challenges would you like to see solved by a product or solution in the security space?
One major challenge is the need for more intuitive digital security, such as managing complex passwords, two-factor authentication, and avoiding phishing scams can overwhelm students. In the lab, improved real-time monitoring for safety conditions is necessary, especially with volatile materials; a wearable device or sensor system to detect harmful gases, temperature changes, or equipment malfunctions would enhance safety.

Additionally, for physical security on campus, a reliable way to signal for help such as a discreet app or device that shares location or alerts contacts would greatly benefit students feeling unsafe.

5. Deep Exploration How do you see the future of security technologies? What would you like to see developed? I think the future of security technologies is headed toward automation, personalization, and integration across different areas of life. We’re likely to see smarter systems that can predict and prevent threats before they even happen, which would be especially useful in areas like lab safety and cybersecurity. I imagine AI and machine learning will play a bigger role, creating security systems that can adapt to personal behaviors and alert us to unusual activities almost like having a personal security assistant.

In terms of digital security, I’d love to see more seamless and secure authentication methods, maybe through biometrics or something even more advanced, like using behavioral patterns. If security could be as easy as how we naturally interact with our devices, that would take away a lot of the hassle of managing passwords and other logins.

In a lab context, it would be great to see real-time safety systems integrated into lab equipment, where sensors could track and alert us to any potential hazards. Imagine gloves or lab goggles that could detect harmful gases or react to temperature changes—it would make lab environments so much safer.

For physical security, I’d like to see developments in discreet personal safety devices that connect easily to our phones and can automatically alert emergency contacts if we’re in trouble. Ideally, these would have reliable location tracking, audio/video recording, and even automatic alert triggers in certain situations. The idea would be to have security that’s more proactive and doesn’t rely so much on us remembering to activate it in moments of stress.

6. Conclusion

In your opinion, what would be a “game changer” in the security space that you would like to see?
I think we’ve covered a lot of important points, but one aspect I’d like to emphasize is the need for education and awareness around security. No matter how advanced technology becomes, if people aren’t aware of potential risks or how to use security tools effectively, those tools may not be as effective.

For example, many students may not know about common phishing techniques or how to recognize unsafe websites. Workshops or educational resources focused on practical security skills like how to set up secure passwords, recognize scams, or respond to emergencies would be incredibly valuable.

Additionally, I think it’s important for security solutions to be accessible and user friendly, particularly for students and young adults who may not have extensive technical knowledge. Ensuring that tools are designed with a clear, intuitive interface can help people feel more comfortable using them.

Lastly, growing up in a culture of security awareness on campus or within communities could enhance overall safety. Encouraging open discussions about safety experiences and sharing tips can empower individuals to take proactive measures. Overall, while technology plays a significant role in security, education and community engagement are crucial in making sure everyone feels secure and informed.

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