Difference between revisions of "Fitbit"
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<th scope="row">Released</th> | <th scope="row">Released</th> | ||
<td>Developers: [[Released for developers in::]] | <td>Developers: [[Released for developers in::]] | ||
| − | <br/>Consumers: [[Released for consumers::November 2014]]</td> | + | <br/>Consumers: [[Released for consumers::November 2014]]<ref name="ref14">FITBIT STAFF. Fitbit Charge, Charge HR & Surge: Welcome to a Whole New World of Fitness [online]. October 27, 2014. Available online at: https://blog.fitbit.com/fitbit-charge-charge-hr-surge-welcome-to-a-whole-new-world-of-fitness/ (Retrieved December 15, 2015 </ref></td> |
</tr> | </tr> | ||
<tr> | <tr> | ||
<th scope="row">Price</th> | <th scope="row">Price</th> | ||
| − | <td>[[Costs::130]] | + | <td>[[Costs::130]] EUR <ref name="ref13">Fitbit Store [online]. December 13, 2015. Available online at: https://www.fitbit.com/eu/store </ref></td> |
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| − | Fitbit Charge is one of a series of smart fitness trackers from the American company Fitbit. It is characterized by, like its predecessors, simple design. The wristband is equipped with sensor which is able to scan all day activity of the owner, his workout and his sleep activity. Fitbit Charge is compatible with several operating systems. <ref name="ref1">http://www.fitbit.com/charge | + | Fitbit Charge is one of a series of smart fitness trackers from the American company Fitbit. It is characterized by, like its predecessors, simple design. The wristband is equipped with sensor which is able to scan all day activity of the owner, his workout and his sleep activity. Fitbit Charge is compatible with several operating systems. <ref name="ref1">Energize your day. October 20, 2015. Fitbit [online]. Available online at: http://www.fitbit.com/charge </ref> |
<!-- Very brief description of the technology. This section should contain the main information about the subject. It's good to leave this bit as the last one and use the information provided in greater detail in later sections.--> | <!-- Very brief description of the technology. This section should contain the main information about the subject. It's good to leave this bit as the last one and use the information provided in greater detail in later sections.--> | ||
== Main characteristics == | == Main characteristics == | ||
| − | Fitbit Charge is a smart wristband for all-day use. It is composed of an elastic strip innocuous to human skin, a metal fastening similar to conventional watches, small rectangular OLED display and sensors for scanning activity of the wearer. Of course there is also displaying the current time. The wristband has a variety of essential functions from the pedometer, which measures the achieved time and distance, to monitoring the user's sleep and a silent alarm. The last useful function is the monitoring incoming call notification.<ref name="ref1" /> Charge model is the basic version of this series. Model Charge HR is equipped in addition to basic functions even heart rate sensor, GPS and display real-time state of activities in an application on your smartphone.<ref name="ref2">http://mobilenet.cz/clanky/recenze-fitbit-charge-hr-srdecni-zalezitost-pro-kazdeho-19083 (Retrieved October 20 2015)</ref> <ref name="ref3">http://www.wareable.com/fitbit/fitbit-charge-hr-review (Retrieved | + | Fitbit Charge is a smart wristband for all-day use. It is composed of an elastic strip innocuous to human skin, a metal fastening similar to conventional watches, small rectangular OLED display and sensors for scanning activity of the wearer. Of course there is also displaying the current time. The wristband has a variety of essential functions from the pedometer, which measures the achieved time and distance, to monitoring the user's sleep and a silent alarm. The last useful function is the monitoring incoming call notification.<ref name="ref1" /> Charge model is the basic version of this series. Model Charge HR is equipped in addition to basic functions even heart rate sensor, GPS and display real-time state of activities in an application on your smartphone.<ref name="ref2"> MRÁZ. Jakub. Recenze Fitbit Charge HR: srdeční záležitost pro každého. February 19,2015. [online]. Available online at: http://mobilenet.cz/clanky/recenze-fitbit-charge-hr-srdecni-zalezitost-pro-kazdeho-19083 (Retrieved October 20,2015)</ref> <ref name="ref3">STABLES. James. Fitbit Charge HR review. December 15, 2015. [online]. Available online at: http://www.wareable.com/fitbit/fitbit-charge-hr-review (Retrieved December 20, 2015)</ref> |
| − | The wristband is durable due to its material. The manufacturer states waterproof to 1 ATM, but only to sweat and rain. It is not therefore suitable for swimming or showering routine. Charge is equipped with three sensors - accelometer records physical activity, its frequency and speed. Altimeter is capable with accelometrem measure together the number of floors achieved per day. Vibrating motor is needed for displaying notifications. In the case of incoming call motor will vibrate slightly to warn holder about the event. However, it is not possible to receive calls directly through the device.<ref name="ref4">http://www.dcrainmaker.com/2014/10/thoughts-activity-trackers.html (Retrieved November 10 2015)</ref> <ref name="ref5">http://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/review/activity-trackers/fitbit-charge-review-3584377/ (Retrieved November 10 2015)</ref> | + | The wristband is durable due to its material. The manufacturer states waterproof to 1 ATM, but only to sweat and rain. It is not therefore suitable for swimming or showering routine. Charge is equipped with three sensors - accelometer records physical activity, its frequency and speed. Altimeter is capable with accelometrem measure together the number of floors achieved per day. Vibrating motor is needed for displaying notifications. In the case of incoming call motor will vibrate slightly to warn holder about the event. However, it is not possible to receive calls directly through the device.<ref name="ref4"> DC RAINMAKER. A few quick thoughts on Fitbit’s new activity trackers, GPS watch (with optical heart rate!) October 27, 2014. [online]. Available online at: http://www.dcrainmaker.com/2014/10/thoughts-activity-trackers.html (Retrieved November 10, 2015) </ref> <ref name="ref5">JARY. Simon. Fitbit Charge review: stats visible on wrist display. December 17, 2014 [online]. Available online at: http://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/review/activity-trackers/fitbit-charge-review-3584377/ (Retrieved November 10, 2015)</ref> |
Developer highlights long life battery and compatibility with a wide range of devices, from smartphones to PCs. After pairing with application in mobile phone or another desk, application is able to display customized settings of wristband, important informations about owner’s activity – number of steps, duration of motion and workout, distance, quantity of steps, but also a number of burned calories. Wristband stores these information in application and are long time monitored. <ref name="ref1">http://www.fitbit.com/charge (Retrieved October 20 2015)</ref> | Developer highlights long life battery and compatibility with a wide range of devices, from smartphones to PCs. After pairing with application in mobile phone or another desk, application is able to display customized settings of wristband, important informations about owner’s activity – number of steps, duration of motion and workout, distance, quantity of steps, but also a number of burned calories. Wristband stores these information in application and are long time monitored. <ref name="ref1">http://www.fitbit.com/charge (Retrieved October 20 2015)</ref> | ||
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For full use of all functions Fitbit Charge is necessary to have installed the original application on your smartphone or other device. Fitbit has developed a unified application that is compatible with a variety of operating systems and platforms - Windows Phone, iOS and Android. Developers provides a list of devices that are suitable for Fitbit on their website. Synchronization wristband with phone pass through Bluetooth 4.0 and runs over a distance of up to 6 meters (20 feet). Transfer of information to computer runs via a Windows (Vista and later), Mac OS X and above, iPad 3 gen and up and leading Android and Windows device.<ref name="ref1" /><ref name="ref3" /> | For full use of all functions Fitbit Charge is necessary to have installed the original application on your smartphone or other device. Fitbit has developed a unified application that is compatible with a variety of operating systems and platforms - Windows Phone, iOS and Android. Developers provides a list of devices that are suitable for Fitbit on their website. Synchronization wristband with phone pass through Bluetooth 4.0 and runs over a distance of up to 6 meters (20 feet). Transfer of information to computer runs via a Windows (Vista and later), Mac OS X and above, iPad 3 gen and up and leading Android and Windows device.<ref name="ref1" /><ref name="ref3" /> | ||
| − | Other Fitbit models (produced in 2015)<ref name="ref11">http://www.fitbit.com (Retrieved December 06 2015)</ref> | + | Other Fitbit models (produced in 2015)<ref name="ref11">FITBIT. [online]. Available online at: http://www.fitbit.com (Retrieved December 06 2015)</ref> |
* Fitbit Zip | * Fitbit Zip | ||
| Line 112: | Line 112: | ||
== Important Dates == | == Important Dates == | ||
| − | * Fitbit was founded in May 1 2007 in San Francisco. <ref name="ref9">https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/fitbit#/entity (Retrieved December 4 2015)</ref> | + | * Fitbit was founded in May 1 2007 in San Francisco. <ref name="ref9"> Company Details. [online]. Available online at: https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/fitbit#/entity (Retrieved December 4 2015)</ref> |
| − | * Fitbit iPhone App is availible in October 2011. | + | * Fitbit iPhone App is availible in October 2011.<ref name="ref10" /> |
| − | * Fitbit Zip is announced in September 2012. | + | * Fitbit Zip is announced in September 2012.<ref name="ref10" /> |
| − | * Fitbit Flex is announced in January 2013. | + | * Fitbit Flex is announced in January 2013.<ref name="ref10" /> |
| − | * Fitbit Windows Phone platform is availible in July 2014. | + | * Fitbit Windows Phone platform is availible in July 2014.<ref name="ref10" /> |
| − | * Fitbit Charge, Charge HR and Surge is announced in October 2014.<ref name="ref10">https://blog.fitbit.com/category/fitbit-news/product-announcements/ (Retrieved December 4 2015)</ref> | + | * Fitbit Charge, Charge HR and Surge is announced in October 2014.<ref name="ref10"> FITBIT STAFF. Product News & Updates. [online]. Available online at: https://blog.fitbit.com/category/fitbit-news/product-announcements/ (Retrieved December 4 2015)</ref> |
<!-- A list of important dates in the development and history of the technology. Use the information provided in the second half of the Main characteristics section and make it into a short, unnumbered list. --> | <!-- A list of important dates in the development and history of the technology. Use the information provided in the second half of the Main characteristics section and make it into a short, unnumbered list. --> | ||
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== Health Risks == | == Health Risks == | ||
| − | Skin irritation appeared at users wrist in one of the models. First, Fitbit Force, which was already recalled last year. For models Charge and Charge HR are emerging similar difficulties. Fitbit company reacts to complaints as misconduct with the hygiene recommendations. Skin burning could be caused by sweat, water held under band<ref name="ref6">http://www.wareable.com/fitbit/fitbit-charge-skin-irritation-complaints-593 (Retrieved November 10 2015)</ref> or it could be alergy reaction to materials of device (band and nickel in stainless steel).<ref name="ref7">http://help.fitbit.com/articles/en_US/Help_article/Is-my-Charge-Charge-HR-or-Surge-safe-to-wear (Retrieved November 10 2015)</ref> | + | Skin irritation appeared at users wrist in one of the models. First, Fitbit Force, which was already recalled last year. For models Charge and Charge HR are emerging similar difficulties. Fitbit company reacts to complaints as misconduct with the hygiene recommendations. Skin burning could be caused by sweat, water held under band<ref name="ref6">STABLES. James. Fitbit Charge skin irritation complaints still plague company. February 13, 2015. [online]. Available online at: http://www.wareable.com/fitbit/fitbit-charge-skin-irritation-complaints-593 (Retrieved November 10 2015)</ref> or it could be alergy reaction to materials of device (band and nickel in stainless steel).<ref name="ref7">Fitbit Help. Is my Charge, Charge HR, or Surge safe to wear? February 19, 2015. [online]. Available online at: http://help.fitbit.com/articles/en_US/Help_article/Is-my-Charge-Charge-HR-or-Surge-safe-to-wear (Retrieved November 10 2015)</ref> |
| − | Some US insurers together with the employers included smart bracelets like Fitbit in their wellness programs. The aim of these programs is to force clients to invest more time and money in their health. The motivation for clients shall be reduction of the rate of health insurance they must pay. Many North American companies now invests in improving the health of of their employees through the purchase of smart bracelets. These programs offer more benefits than just the reduction of obligatory insurance. In addition to the health, employees can turn their achieved goals , for example, in a day off. <ref name="ref8">http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2014-08-21/wear-this-device-so-the-boss-knows-you-re-losing-weight (Retrieved November 9 2015)</ref> | + | Some US insurers together with the employers included smart bracelets like Fitbit in their wellness programs. The aim of these programs is to force clients to invest more time and money in their health. The motivation for clients shall be reduction of the rate of health insurance they must pay. Many North American companies now invests in improving the health of of their employees through the purchase of smart bracelets. These programs offer more benefits than just the reduction of obligatory insurance. In addition to the health, employees can turn their achieved goals , for example, in a day off. <ref name="ref8">SATARIANO. Adam. Wear This Device So the Boss Knows You’re Losing Weight. August 21, 2014. [online]. Available online at: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2014-08-21/wear-this-device-so-the-boss-knows-you-re-losing-weight (Retrieved November 9 2015)</ref> |
<!-- Any related health issues, be it already discovered and covered in literature, or just speculative ones, should be described and properly cited in this section. --> | <!-- Any related health issues, be it already discovered and covered in literature, or just speculative ones, should be described and properly cited in this section. --> | ||
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== Public & Media Impact and Presentation == | == Public & Media Impact and Presentation == | ||
| − | Fitbit is a term among wearables and came to the attention of the media. Each new model Fitbit is very expected. Most mentions of this technology is in the form of user and expert reviews. Although | + | Fitbit is a term among wearables and came to the attention of the media. Each new model Fitbit is very expected. Most mentions of this technology is in the form of user and expert reviews. Although Fitbit has media attention only of fans and users, they also have negative advertising. In 5/2015 Fitbit was accused by its main competitor, by Jawbone, taking over employees and stealing know-how.<ref name="ref12">de la MERCED. Michael J. Jawbone Accuses Fitbit of Stealing Information by Hiring Workers Away. May 27, 2015. [online]. Available online at: http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/28/business/dealbook/jawbone-sues-fitbit-over-data-plundering-by-ex-employees.html?_r=1 (Retrieved December 07 2015)</ref> |
<!-- Provide information about the impact the technology had on the public and how the technology is presented in the media or literature. If there was anything in the news regarding this technology, it should be noted and properly cited here. --> | <!-- Provide information about the impact the technology had on the public and how the technology is presented in the media or literature. If there was anything in the news regarding this technology, it should be noted and properly cited here. --> | ||
== Public Policy == | == Public Policy == | ||
| − | There | + | There is not established some legislation regarding the protection of personal data provided by the user. The data are stored in the web interface, which can lead to information theft, or other illegal dealing with personal data of individuals. |
<!-- Information related to any regulations (law, patents, ISOs, government recommendations and so on.) --> | <!-- Information related to any regulations (law, patents, ISOs, government recommendations and so on.) --> | ||
== Related Technologies, Project or Scientific Research == | == Related Technologies, Project or Scientific Research == | ||
| + | There is no related technologies, project or scientific research. | ||
<!-- If there is any scientific research conducted or being conducted that is closely connected to this technology, it should be properly cited here. --> | <!-- If there is any scientific research conducted or being conducted that is closely connected to this technology, it should be properly cited here. --> | ||
Latest revision as of 10:46, 22 December 2015
| Fitbit Charge | |
|---|---|
|
|
| Category | Limb-mounted |
| Developer | Fitbit |
| Announced | October 2014 |
| Released | Developers:
Consumers: November 2014[1] |
| Price | 130 EUR [2] |
| Operating system | IOS, Windows Phone, Windows 10, Android |
| Sensors | 3-axis accelerometer, Altimeter, Vibration motor |
| Weight | 23 g |
| Controls | |
| Data available | Good |
| Risk factor | Moderate |
| Standalone[3] | |
| www.fitbit.com | |
Fitbit Charge is one of a series of smart fitness trackers from the American company Fitbit. It is characterized by, like its predecessors, simple design. The wristband is equipped with sensor which is able to scan all day activity of the owner, his workout and his sleep activity. Fitbit Charge is compatible with several operating systems. [4]
Contents
Main characteristics
Fitbit Charge is a smart wristband for all-day use. It is composed of an elastic strip innocuous to human skin, a metal fastening similar to conventional watches, small rectangular OLED display and sensors for scanning activity of the wearer. Of course there is also displaying the current time. The wristband has a variety of essential functions from the pedometer, which measures the achieved time and distance, to monitoring the user's sleep and a silent alarm. The last useful function is the monitoring incoming call notification.[4] Charge model is the basic version of this series. Model Charge HR is equipped in addition to basic functions even heart rate sensor, GPS and display real-time state of activities in an application on your smartphone.[5] [6]
The wristband is durable due to its material. The manufacturer states waterproof to 1 ATM, but only to sweat and rain. It is not therefore suitable for swimming or showering routine. Charge is equipped with three sensors - accelometer records physical activity, its frequency and speed. Altimeter is capable with accelometrem measure together the number of floors achieved per day. Vibrating motor is needed for displaying notifications. In the case of incoming call motor will vibrate slightly to warn holder about the event. However, it is not possible to receive calls directly through the device.[7] [8]
Developer highlights long life battery and compatibility with a wide range of devices, from smartphones to PCs. After pairing with application in mobile phone or another desk, application is able to display customized settings of wristband, important informations about owner’s activity – number of steps, duration of motion and workout, distance, quantity of steps, but also a number of burned calories. Wristband stores these information in application and are long time monitored. [4]
For full use of all functions Fitbit Charge is necessary to have installed the original application on your smartphone or other device. Fitbit has developed a unified application that is compatible with a variety of operating systems and platforms - Windows Phone, iOS and Android. Developers provides a list of devices that are suitable for Fitbit on their website. Synchronization wristband with phone pass through Bluetooth 4.0 and runs over a distance of up to 6 meters (20 feet). Transfer of information to computer runs via a Windows (Vista and later), Mac OS X and above, iPad 3 gen and up and leading Android and Windows device.[4][6]
Other Fitbit models (produced in 2015)[9]
- Fitbit Zip
- Fitbit One
- Fitbit Flex
- Fitbit Charge HR
- Fitbit Surge
Purpose
Fitbit is smart device, which is able to monitoring owner's all-day and fitness activity. Throughout the stored information monitors and assists the wearer to achieve better results in his fitness and healthy lifestyle.
Company & People
Fitbit was founded in 2007 in San Francisco, CA.[4]
- James Park - CEO, President & Co-Founder
- Eric N. Friedman - Chief technology officer & Co-Founder
- Edward M. Scal - Chief revenue officer
- Bill Zerella - Chief financial officer
- Steven Soderberg - VP, Information Technology
Important Dates
- Fitbit was founded in May 1 2007 in San Francisco. [10]
- Fitbit iPhone App is availible in October 2011.[11]
- Fitbit Zip is announced in September 2012.[11]
- Fitbit Flex is announced in January 2013.[11]
- Fitbit Windows Phone platform is availible in July 2014.[11]
- Fitbit Charge, Charge HR and Surge is announced in October 2014.[11]
Ethical Issues
There has not been reavealed any strong ethical issues related to Fitbit device. One problem could be the protection of user privacy. This question, however, relates to almost all the wearables that operate on the basis of providing personal information to an external processor, most equipment manufacturers or another organization.[12] Most manufacturers, however assures their customers that their data are secure against misuse.
Health Risks
Skin irritation appeared at users wrist in one of the models. First, Fitbit Force, which was already recalled last year. For models Charge and Charge HR are emerging similar difficulties. Fitbit company reacts to complaints as misconduct with the hygiene recommendations. Skin burning could be caused by sweat, water held under band[13] or it could be alergy reaction to materials of device (band and nickel in stainless steel).[14]
Some US insurers together with the employers included smart bracelets like Fitbit in their wellness programs. The aim of these programs is to force clients to invest more time and money in their health. The motivation for clients shall be reduction of the rate of health insurance they must pay. Many North American companies now invests in improving the health of of their employees through the purchase of smart bracelets. These programs offer more benefits than just the reduction of obligatory insurance. In addition to the health, employees can turn their achieved goals , for example, in a day off. [12]
Enhancement/Therapy/Treatment
Fitbit products are not recognized as medical aids. Users use this device to improve their health through the monitoring of their physical activity all day long. It is therefore a wellness device that can help users to lead a healthy lifestyle. Due to the functions of mobile applications (from the activity monitor to entry the menu), the user himself watching his daily routine and in accordance with the recommendations he can prevent various health complications.
Public & Media Impact and Presentation
Fitbit is a term among wearables and came to the attention of the media. Each new model Fitbit is very expected. Most mentions of this technology is in the form of user and expert reviews. Although Fitbit has media attention only of fans and users, they also have negative advertising. In 5/2015 Fitbit was accused by its main competitor, by Jawbone, taking over employees and stealing know-how.[15]
Public Policy
There is not established some legislation regarding the protection of personal data provided by the user. The data are stored in the web interface, which can lead to information theft, or other illegal dealing with personal data of individuals.
Related Technologies, Project or Scientific Research
There is no related technologies, project or scientific research.
References
- ↑ FITBIT STAFF. Fitbit Charge, Charge HR & Surge: Welcome to a Whole New World of Fitness [online]. October 27, 2014. Available online at: https://blog.fitbit.com/fitbit-charge-charge-hr-surge-welcome-to-a-whole-new-world-of-fitness/ (Retrieved December 15, 2015
- ↑ Fitbit Store [online]. December 13, 2015. Available online at: https://www.fitbit.com/eu/store
- ↑ Shows if the device is a standalone wearable computer or if it needs to be connected to a processing unit to function.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 Energize your day. October 20, 2015. Fitbit [online]. Available online at: http://www.fitbit.com/charge
- ↑ MRÁZ. Jakub. Recenze Fitbit Charge HR: srdeční záležitost pro každého. February 19,2015. [online]. Available online at: http://mobilenet.cz/clanky/recenze-fitbit-charge-hr-srdecni-zalezitost-pro-kazdeho-19083 (Retrieved October 20,2015)
- ↑ 6.0 6.1 STABLES. James. Fitbit Charge HR review. December 15, 2015. [online]. Available online at: http://www.wareable.com/fitbit/fitbit-charge-hr-review (Retrieved December 20, 2015)
- ↑ DC RAINMAKER. A few quick thoughts on Fitbit’s new activity trackers, GPS watch (with optical heart rate!) October 27, 2014. [online]. Available online at: http://www.dcrainmaker.com/2014/10/thoughts-activity-trackers.html (Retrieved November 10, 2015)
- ↑ JARY. Simon. Fitbit Charge review: stats visible on wrist display. December 17, 2014 [online]. Available online at: http://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/review/activity-trackers/fitbit-charge-review-3584377/ (Retrieved November 10, 2015)
- ↑ FITBIT. [online]. Available online at: http://www.fitbit.com (Retrieved December 06 2015)
- ↑ Company Details. [online]. Available online at: https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/fitbit#/entity (Retrieved December 4 2015)
- ↑ 11.0 11.1 11.2 11.3 11.4 FITBIT STAFF. Product News & Updates. [online]. Available online at: https://blog.fitbit.com/category/fitbit-news/product-announcements/ (Retrieved December 4 2015)
- ↑ 12.0 12.1 SATARIANO. Adam. Wear This Device So the Boss Knows You’re Losing Weight. August 21, 2014. [online]. Available online at: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2014-08-21/wear-this-device-so-the-boss-knows-you-re-losing-weight (Retrieved November 9 2015)
- ↑ STABLES. James. Fitbit Charge skin irritation complaints still plague company. February 13, 2015. [online]. Available online at: http://www.wareable.com/fitbit/fitbit-charge-skin-irritation-complaints-593 (Retrieved November 10 2015)
- ↑ Fitbit Help. Is my Charge, Charge HR, or Surge safe to wear? February 19, 2015. [online]. Available online at: http://help.fitbit.com/articles/en_US/Help_article/Is-my-Charge-Charge-HR-or-Surge-safe-to-wear (Retrieved November 10 2015)
- ↑ de la MERCED. Michael J. Jawbone Accuses Fitbit of Stealing Information by Hiring Workers Away. May 27, 2015. [online]. Available online at: http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/28/business/dealbook/jawbone-sues-fitbit-over-data-plundering-by-ex-employees.html?_r=1 (Retrieved December 07 2015)
