IoT Cybersecurity Legislation Introduced by UK Government

UK Government introduces consumer IoT cybersecurity legislation to address cybercrime vulnerabilities.

20:58 01 May 2021

The UK government has recently introduced a consumer IoT cybersecurity legislation to protect consumers from insecure connected products like smartphones, home security systems and smart televisions. 

 

A recent study has confirmed that the consumer IoT market is now worth over $50bn. Experts say that this level of growth comes with increased cybersecurity vulnerabilities in digitally connected consumer technologies. 

 

Unlike B2B connected devices, manufacturers of IoT devices meant for consumers do not have standards to follow in regards to cybersecurity. The products that they put on the market often come with universal default passwords that are particularly open to vulnerabilities, which is exacerbated by irregular password updates and inadequate security measures and policies in place. 

 

The UK government has since taken steps to address IoT vulnerabilities by implementing appropriate legislation. This will pave the way in ensuring consumers and their IoT devices are protected. The new law will hold manufacturers of IoT products to account for security vulnerabilities and be responsible for ensuring their safety from cybercriminals. 

 

The UK Government's intervention will ensure manufacturers catering to the UK market meet the minimum baseline of security measures. This aims to ensure that the harms that can arise from vulnerable consumer-connected products are eliminated or at least minimised.