Regulations governing the internet of things (IoT) are undergoing changes with great frequency to keep up with the breakneck pace of this technology. Hence, legal systems are finding it increasingly challenging to play catchup with the rapid evolution of this technology and the millions of devices connected to it. Affected by transient loopholes, consumers sometimes feel that they lack control on how their data is being shared or used. So much personal information is being collected on finances, mental health, political leanings and other sensitive subjects. But, don’t worry, we have some tips on how you can not only deal better with this change, but indeed, embrace it and live it.
Embrace the future
During this era of change centred around the internet of things, ideas differ as to what should be done with collected data while those who gather it should make sure that such sensitive information is not spread here and there across the web. Individuals who have studied legal issues around the internet of things agree that countless benefits attached to this emerging technology will also usher in change in a way that there will be no stopping. All of us should learn to go ahead with the change that this technology is bringing to our lives, and embrace the future, which appears to be full of exciting possibilities.
Too early to implement regulations
Roger Atkinson, who is serving as the President of a non-profit information technology and innovation foundation partly financed by Google and Cisco systems, believes that due to incentives, gadget makers share a relationship of trust with the consumers, and must ensure that their data is protected at all costs. Accordingly, he believes that the industry should regulate itself as it is simply too early for new rules to get settled into the ever-evolving groove of the internet of things. Thus, keeping track of what is happening, while letting things roll and gather momentum, is a must.
Lively Technology to benefit the elderly
While technologies like Lively are starting to get increasingly adopted in the US, two senior citizens have had their home outfitted with sensors made by the company. Their son receives notifications on whether they have opened their pill boxes or the refrigerator door in order to indicate if they are taking their medications or eating regularly. Their son also stated that he is confident that the corporation will not misuse the gathered information. The good thing about Lively is that it offers a privacy policy that gives users the opportunity to consent before sharing data. Only after the corporation has stripped off identifiable details on the consumer, does the consumer rightfully believe that it is logical and reasonable to let these corporation have access to their data.
Federal Trade Commission protecting US consumers
According to Jessica Rich, head of the consumer protection bureau of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) of the US, their priority in the case of the IoT is data-gathering technology. The FTC believes that promulgating and implementing new laws to govern the IoT would be premature as this technology is still evolving and finding its place among consumers and rule makers. On a final note, for IoT to truly take-off, consumers should be well-versed with steps to follow to stay in tune with what is happening with sensitive information shared with service providers, while data gatherers should respect the relationship of trust they have with consumers.
Source: Triblive
Image Source: noamdesign
