The Internet Of Things And The Difficulty In Regulating Emerging Technologies

From window blinds to locks, the total number of consumer and industrial devices capable of collecting, transmitting and receiving data through the Internet continues to grow. Indeed, the installed base of connected devices in 2015 was estimated at 15.41 billion worldwide and is expected to reach almost 76 billion devices by 2025. This increased digitalization of everyday and commercial items is known as the Internet of Things (IoT).

While IoT devices can result in more efficient processes, smarter decision making, and more autonomy, both in business and in our personal lives, they also pose significant privacy and security risks. As the number of IoT devices increases, so too does the amount of personal and corporate information that exists and is shared online. And by connecting a greater diversity of devices to networks, the number of vulnerable portals through which criminals can access this information, or take control of a connected device also increases.