Stanford CIS

Experts: Consumer protections vital as Internet of Things expand

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"Washington policymakers also face a learning curve. Those seeking to protect consumers’ security and privacy when it comes to the Internet of Things must also be careful not to damage innovation by instating overly broad regulations, said Andrea Matwyshyn, a law professor at Northeastern University.

“In this case, we need a regulatory scalpel, not a regulatory axe,” Ms. Matwyshyn said.

Ultimately, it could come down to the consumers’ own needs and preferences. Some might prefer that certain devices are not connected to the Internet. Just because connective capabilities can be added, doesn’t mean they should, Matwyshyn said. “It’s the ‘better with bacon’ problem.”"