From: ComputerWorldUK
Ofcom will work with ICO to regulate the Internet of Things
By Margi Murphy
A common framework to give consumers more transparency over their data as devices, cars, and homes become connected, will be “critical” to the development of the Internet of Things, Ofcom stated this week.
The regulator published a report that detailed how spectrum availability, data privacy, network security and network addresses should be regulated as the world becomes increasingly connected – and businesses learn more about its customers.
The report somewhat clarified UK companies’ position on handling and sharing of customer data pooled from devices or smart products – like cars, boilers or even fridges – however the regulator did not state what, or when, a framework would be enforced.
It said that data privacy concerns raised by the IoT would be covered by the Data Protection Act regulations already in place, but added: “We have concluded that a common framework that allows consumers easily and transparently to authorise the conditions under which data collected by their devices is used and shared by others will be critical to future development of the IoT sector.
“Given this, we will explore how we can support and work with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), government, other regulators and industry to facilitate progress on this issue at both a national and international level.”
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