In an era where digital communication dominates, ensuring privacy and security has become paramount. No one understands this more than Sarah Norford-Jones, who co-founded private messaging solution, YEO Messaging, following a disturbing experience of online personation as a child.
We caught up with her to chat about her favourite tech innovations, dream collaborations, and her vision for a more secure digital future.
What’s been one of your favourite tech innovations in the last year?
During my visit to the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, I came across a very cool innovation: the Biovitae microbicidal LED light bulb. It resembles a standard light bulb and functions just like one. However, what sets it apart is its ability to eliminate bacteria, viruses, fungi, and mould. With this innovative light bulb, you can ensure your rooms remain free from harmful pathogens, allergens, unpleasant odours, and mould, creating a healthier living environment.
What is one trend you foresee will change up the tech world in the next year?
One trend that I believe will significantly impact the tech world is the widespread adoption of augmented reality (AR) in various industries. There have been some major advancements in AR technology and the increasing availability of AR-enabled devices, we can expect to see major changes in sectors such as healthcare, education, retail and entertainment. AR has the potential to change how we interact with digital content.
What is a dream brand you would like to work with, and why?
One of my dream brands to collaborate with would be a dating app such as Bumble. The reason for this is the potential to integrate our YEO Messaging Continuous Facial Authentication SDK, which would offer a solution to prevalent issues like cat-fishing fraud and romance scams. By incorporating this software, Bumble would be able to verify the identity of their users in real-time. This ensures a more secure and authentic user experience, eliminating the possibility of users misrepresenting themselves or using fake photos.
If you could change one thing in the industry, what would it be?
I would advocate for a ban on the use of deep fakes. Whilst the technology is impressive, its potential for misuse poses significant risks. They have the capability to deceive and manipulate, leading to misinformation, privacy breaches, and reputational harm.
And finally, if you could invent any piece of technology, what would it be?
That’s a tough one… We have already invented something pretty cool in the cybersecurity space with YEO. But, I guess if given the chance, I would want to create something that could help protect people online even further. Maybe something like an advanced privacy-centric authentication system that uses biometrics and blockchain to securely verify and protect individuals’ identities online. This would allow users to control and selectively share their personal information with trusted entities, reducing the risk of identity theft, fraud, and unauthorised surveillance.
The convergence of tech and brands 