The Benefits, Challenges, and Potential Roles for the Government in Fostering the Advancement of the Internet of Things

The staff of the Federal Trade Commission’s Bureau of Consumer Protection (BCP) and Office of Policy Planning (OPP) appreciate this opportunity to comment on the Department of Commerce, National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) Request for Comment (RFC) on the Internet of Things. In part, the RFC seeks to: (1) define the Internet of Things; (2) understand the security and privacy issues related to IoT; (3) understand the technical issues surrounding standardization and interoperability; and (4) understand the impact that big data in an interconnected world can have on disadvantaged communities.

This comment highlights lessons learned from the FTC’s law enforcement, consumer and business education, and policy activities relating to these issues. It then addresses the benefits and risks of IoT, highlights some best practice recommendations for industry, discusses the role of government in fostering innovation in IoT products and services, and sets forth some considerations for NTIA in setting standards and promoting interoperability