Rep Issa Says Internet of Things Should Be Part of Congressional Debate on Encryption

Congress should consider the Internet of Things -- the rapidly growing network of devices, objects and sensors -- as it debates whether to help law enforcement access encrypted communications, said Rep Darrell Issa (R-CA). Within our lifetime, citizens will be in regular contact with millions of microprocessors, the Republican congressman said. "Will they be connected or completely vulnerable?" Rep Issa said. "Will they be encrypted? Will there have to be a backdoor? Those questions and more very clearly fall within the debate we have to have in Congress."

Lawmakers have been debating whether encrypted communication could allow terrorists to skirt surveillance. As Congress debates encryption more broadly,"talking about the Internet and terrorism, let's understand if we give it up in one area, will we give it up in the areas of every connected device and if we do so, is there really any hope for a secure and reliable Internet of Things?" Rep Issa asked. He added, "We have to find a way to create strong, safe and reliable connectivity and if we do there's an almost unlimited potential for efficiencies, and in fact, a better life for our family."