Internet of Things software developer ‘It’s Here’ declared the launch of a blockchain-based lock that supposedly limits porch pirating.

According to a press release on Jan. 7, the solution named IoTLock — is composed of a software system and decentralized mobile application (DApp) that can convert any keypad-enabled device into blockchain-secured smart devices.

The document indicates delivery boxes, mailboxes, and safes as parts of devices that can be upgraded with the solution. In the case of mailboxes, by providing access only to authorized people like package delivery couriers, the system would reportedly block porch pirating.

Porch pirating is a phrase used to define the practice of stealing packages that were dropped in front of home doors after delivery. The event is quite widespread, with the 2019 box stealing statistics report published by research firm C+R Research implies that 36% of American consumers had a package stolen.

The company is using blockchain as a way to save and protect data while also providing for authentication. Per the release, the IoT industry requires solutions to preserve the privacy and personal data from third parties and more sturdy security.

This claim is strengthened by reports of IoT devices being mangled, involving a 2017 incident in which a vulnerability was found in a peacemaker, which would have enabled an attacker to cause potentially lethal shocks. Also, more peculiar cases, like smart fridges mangled to send spam email, were reported.

The system employs a blockchain platform purpose-built for IoT solutions called StreamIoT that utilizes IoT devices to store and manage data, privacy, and authentication and is based on the BlockSafe Baas solution. IoTLock reportedly provides for share access numbers with trusted people.

The dedicated mobile application is open for Android devices. At the same time, the release of the iOS version is scheduled for the near future. StreamIoT co-founder Duane Jacobsen said:

“It’s Here […] is ready to help companies build locking products to secure all those Amazon and UPS deliveries as well as other valuable assets through this unique software service.”

Blockchain is being connected with IoT technology, mostly to improve reliability and security. Last year in May, engineering and electronics manufacturer ‘Bosch’ indicated it would take an active role in preserving the openness of IoT against censorship. 

A press release issued by the firm at the time recorded about IoT and the Economy of Things:

“Distributed ledger technologies (DLT) such as blockchain may well become the key technology in these domains.”

In June 2019, Napster creator Shawn Fanning’s new company Helium published its IoT wireless hotspot devices with a blockchain-based incentives program. Such hotspots would present wireless internet access and cover about 1/50 to 1/150 of a city. People hosting hotspots gain cryptocurrency by giving internet access.

Other major companies are funding in the space. For example, in late May last year, a unit of German telecommunication giant Deutsche Telekom stated that it would work with the Binance-listed project Fetch.AI to develop decentralized IoT network innovations.