The “Internet of Things” refers to all the devices with IP addresses that are connected to networks for the purpose of sharing information… everything from your vehicles and home automation to embedded commercial tracking devices.

According to Gartner, the amount of IoT devices has grown from 3 billion in 2013 to about 4.9 billion in 2015. By 2020, Gartner estimates that figure will swell to 25 billion.

This has the federal government concerned… IoT offers great capabilities, but it also increases the number of threat vectors – potential entry points for cyber-attacks that were once limited to desktops and other legacy hardware.

The growth of IoT has parallels with the growth of the automobile industry. At first, there were no stop signs or traffic lanes until cars became so popular that government stepped in to address the need for generally accepted rules.

Some see the need for a digital equivalent, but regulation and policy lag far behind the growth of IoT. With the stakes high in the current cyber threat landscape, government action is expected. After all, it’s one thing if someone takes over your Instagram account… it’s quite another if they take over your car!

Keep your guard up… Are your business communications protected? Contact us today: (800) 787-4848 or jnolte@ctsmd.us.