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Bad Actors Shouldn't Cause Us to Overlook IoT Opportunity, Innovation, Says CTAThe following statement is attributed to Gary Shapiro (News - Alert), president and CEO, Consumer Technology Association (CTA)™, regarding the importance of Internet of Things (IoT) security after the recent scripted Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack: "Implementing strong security of our IoT devices and systems is an important issue for the technology industry and the nation overall, given the recent series of scripted DDoS attacks. "The IoT offers an amazing opportunity to change the way our world works - enhancing our health care while reducing costs; providing increased security or automated approaches to dangerous jobs; offering more personalized services and experiences; increasing energy savings through greater efficiencies; and so much more - all while driving an estimated trillions of dollars in new economic value. As with any immense opportunity, there are risks involved - in this case, bad actors who in the name of chaos or blackmail disrupt the communication and connectivity we all depend on. But we must not let these cybercriminals hinder innovation and the countless ways in which technology is changing our lives for the better. "To that end, the industry can consider adopting a set of best practices for security, including developing a certification program. CTA is working with our member companies - among the key players in the future of the IoT and its evolution - on multiple programs across tech market categories including self-driving vehicles, health and wellness devices, and smart home technology. Our recent work includes revising CTA-TR-12, Securing Connected Devices for Consumers in the Home, which provides guidance to product designers and managers on how to enhace cybersecurity; developing guidance for product installers to get the best security out of existing devices; and helping develop and launch the Building Security In Maturity Model (BSIMM) online assessment tool, which companies can use to gauge how well they're addressing security in their internal processes and end products. "Consumers also can take steps to enhance the security of their connected devices including changing default passwords supplied with the products, buying well-known brands and having their systems installed by certified professionals. "We will continue to work closely with the tech industry and government to improve IoT security measures and fully enable the remarkable - sometimes life-saving - benefits technology holds for us all." About Consumer Technology Association: Consumer Technology Association (CTA)TM, is the trade association representing the $287 billion U.S. consumer technology industry. More than 2,200 companies - 80 percent are small businesses and startups; others are among the world's best known brands - enjoy the benefits of CTA membership including policy advocacy, market research, technical education, industry promotion, standards development and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. The Consumer Technology Association also owns and produces CES (News - Alert)® - the world's gathering place for all who thrive on the business of consumer technologies. Profits from CES are reinvested into CTA's industry services. UPCOMING EVENTS
View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20161025006775/en/ |
