House Talks 'Internet of Things," Data Privacy

The Internet of Things could be more dangerous than consumers think when they install Nest thermostats or other convenient digital devices, some members of Congress argued during a House Judiciary Committee hearing on the Internet of Things organized by the Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet. Representatives and witnesses discussed how the proliferation of data-driven devices could be both useful to consumers -- and also a potentially risky asset. With cars, public transportation systems and consumer devices constantly collecting information about users, "unless cities integrate strong security...[they are] vulnerable to attack," Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) said. He mused later, "What do these companies do with the massive amount of data?"

In a press release about his testimony, Charles Duan, Director of the Patent Reform Project at Public Knowledge, said, "Our testimony identifies several areas of interest that will affect the future of the Internet of Things. Patent reform will determine the pace of innovation in the space. Ownership rights over these new devices will be contested and must be protected. The freedom of consumers to tinker with and innovate upon their new products must also be defended. Privacy of broadband Internet communications must be protected strongly by the FCC as these new products start to communicate with the world. And management of wireless spectrum, and particularly expansion of unlicensed spectrum, will be critical to ensuring that the Internet of Things has a platform for communication."