The Internet of Things (IoT) has generated many benefits but also introduces a level of risk, including emerging quantum-resistant cybersecurity threats.
The US government is using leading technologies, like the Universal Communications Identifier (UCID), Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics Process Automation (RPA), to capitalize on IoT opportunities and mitigate risks.
The US Census Bureau is preparing a digital transformation for the 2030 Census in order to update claims processing, data governance and operations synchronization.
The bureau will implement EMMA, the Electronic Medical Mobile Application, which is set to revolutionize the process of filing workers’ compensation, property, and tort claims by incorporating blockchain technology. As the first blockchain implementation at the Census Bureau, EMMA is also the federal government’s largest ongoing blockchain project, expected to serve around 500,000 field enumerator users.
The US Census Bureau used 52 legacy systems to conduct the 2020 Census. They are now leveraging new sophisticated and innovative technologies for the 2030 Census to streamline operations, eliminate legacy systems, protect data, and significantly improve device security.
During the 2030 Census, the Census Bureau plans to utilize EMMA, a mobile device application, to safeguard devices, data, and workers among its 500,000 field employees. EMMA will offer a comprehensive solution by serving as a single, intelligent interface that understands natural language, notifies authorities, assesses damage through image processing, generates reports automatically, and distributes necessary documentation to relevant departments within the Bureau. This implementation aims to significantly enhance the customer experience (CX) by achieving these tasks within minutes.
EMMA brings forth increased efficiency by replacing five legacy systems and automating manual processes. By leveraging Robotic Process Automation (RPA), EMMA streamlines tasks, handles error responses, and significantly reduces the time required to complete claims forms. It is projected to reduce the claim filing process from 72 hours to just two minutes. Furthermore, EMMA’s data analysis capabilities provide valuable insights into the causes and locations of injuries, enabling informed decisions on safety measures and better communication strategies for field enumerators. The implementation of blockchain, NFTs, and UCID also ensures unprecedented security for mobile devices. This pioneering project sets the stage for future applications of blockchain technology in both government and enterprise sectors. Additionally, EMMA serves as a prime example of business-to-government (B2G) commercialization and market development, highlighting the vast potential for emerging technologies in various industries, with healthcare alone projected to have a national expenditure of $6.8 trillion by 2028.
EMMA’s integration of AI, chatbots, and RPA represents a significant advancement in optimizing operational efficiency and enhancing the customer experience (CX). Moreover, EMMA’s utilization of cutting-edge technologies like blockchain, NFTs, and UCID showcases a groundbreaking approach to ensuring data and device security, which is crucial for the success of the Internet of Things (IoT). The collaboration between Forward Edge-AI and TNS enables real-time verification of software and hardware through UCID, preventing device duplication and counterfeit usage within EMMA for the Census Bureau. Additionally, this partnership establishes an immutable record of data custody for all medical claims associated with field injuries and incidents.
The rising number and sophistication of attacks on connected medical devices pose significant risks, especially considering the high value of medical data in comparison to credit card information. Quantum-level cybersecurity threats are expected to target advanced persistent threats, sabotage, data theft, and ransomware. Medical identity data containing sensitive information, such as social security and credit card numbers, can be exploited for insurance fraud and tailored care. The recent US Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade and the Affordable Care Act raises concerns about the sharing and misuse of medical data, impacting millions of Americans. Forward Edge-AI, in collaboration with the NSA, is developing Isidore Quantum, a low-cost, quantum-resistant encryption device to safeguard IoT, IoMT, and other critical infrastructure systems. The successful implementation of advanced technologies like AI, blockchain, NFTs, RPA, and UCID in EMMA demonstrates their potential for the government and various industries. The combination of efficiency and security provided by this unique solution has attracted significant investments. EMMA serves as a proof point for unlocking efficiency and addressing risks in the IoT landscape, ensuring the safety and security of our interconnected society.
