This op-ed is a followup to our 12 Insurance Trends for 2020 blog article, originally published in December 2019.

Since the dawn of the internet, cybersecurity and cyberattacks have been locked in a continuous cycle of mutual evolution. As one progresses, the other becomes more sophisticated in response - similar to a game of leap-frog or dueling pianos, but with much higher stakes.

If you’re intrigued by the idea of virtual reality, but not quite sure how it fits into insurance, you’re in good company.

Note: This article has been updated with an op-ed followup to reflect how today's pandemic-related challenges have impacted these twelve trends. Visit the new blog post here:

Insurance Industry: 12 Trends for 2020 in the New Normal

Last year, we outlined the major trends set to disrupt insurance in 2019. We explored a variety of digital, cultural, and economic developments - from AI and blockchain to gig work and the cannabis business - and their potential impact on the industry.

While these trends will continue to shape the insurance landscape in 2020, it’s once again time to look ahead at the next set of emerging issues and challenges.

What is telematics technology?
The term “telematics” refers to devices that merge telecommunications and information technology. These devices are integrated into automobiles to monitor driving behavior, providing data that insurers can use to help determine risk profiles and rates.