At present, advanced technologies are forging into the field with full speed, delivering their undeniable potential. One particular technology that is revolutionizing the tech world by storm is the Internet of Things (IoT). Because of IoT, billions of devices are connected to the internet, and data can be shared and accumulated at a fast pace. Today, you can stay constantly updated with your family and friends, search for the location of your lost phone or smartwatch and even check the health of your car. This is all possible today with the help of CIoT or the Consumer Internet of Things. This advanced technology allows users to have a full-on experience with their IoT devices and help create a more interconnected and booming ecosystem. Now, without further ado, let’s learn more about CIoT and how it makes consumer devices more secure in the United Kingdom.

What is CIoT?

First, let’s learn about the Internet Of Things (IoT)- it describes physical objects with sensors, processing ability, software, and other technologies that connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the Internet or other communications networks.

CIoT or Consumer IoT refers to interconnected devices developed for the consumer market. Some examples of major devices that fall under this are smartphones, smart wearables, smart home devices, etc. These devices accumulate and share data through an internet connection. 

Also Read– How IoT Can Help Overcome Organizational Challenges And Implement The Right Strategy?

CIoT is rather different from regular IoT since the types of applications and devices that power it is quite different from each other. Consumer IoT is becoming more efficient and effortless to utilize with its fast-growing computing capabilities. Moreover, to improve its overall scalability in consumer IoT devices, they operate edge computing technologies to get the most of it.

The large-scale implementation of Consumer IoT applications and devices makes our day-to-day lives much easier and more comfortable. CIoT transforms our daily life by enhancing our connections between people, systems, and the environment. 

How Can IoT Make Consumer Devices More Secure in the UK?

The adoption and usage of IoT devices are at large. With consumers already owning many devices and still planning to purchase more, the loop is endless. Although this is the case, manufacturers tend to not systematically communicate information regarding the security features their devices possess. The security of IoT devices should be well taken into account and certain security frameworks and protocols should be implemented. 

Also Read- Can IoT Play An Important Role In Remote Monitoring? Does Every Business Need to Implement An IoT Monitoring System?

The UK government implemented an initiative called Secure by Design back in 2018, an IoT device certification. Later on, it was followed by a couple of drafts of binding laws, by DCMS (Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport) in the years 2019 and April 2021, in which it has expanded its reach to connected devices such as smartphones. The sensible proposals are as follows-

• Hardcoded/default passwords are prohibited. Every device must require a unique password, including after resets. 
• Makers will include setting up public connections for vulnerability exposure.
• Makers will have to comment on how long devices will obtain security updates. Significantly, this is also applicable to smartphones.

There will also require protected updating mechanisms, an upgraded privacy shield, and more promising back-end security and APIs. The DCMS has also considered encouraging organizations to set up commercial schemes.

Not only the UK Government, but other bodies such as the IoT Security Foundation, IEEE Standards Association, the GSMA, the Cloud Security Alliance, OWASP, and US IoT Cybersecurity Improvement Act, all focus on improving and enhancing IoT security on consumer devices.

Also Read- How Can The Internet of Things (IoT) Impact Office Technology And The Day-to-Day Lives Of Employees?

Conclusion

IoT is such an all-around phenomenon with so many applications and technologies.  Today, companies and organizations are trying their overall best to secure advanced technologies to adapt to the latest trends. They are also trying to render their clients their best top-notch services such as IoT services and AI services to stay one step ahead of their competitors.

Welcome to the new age of CIoT. Be prepared for what it has got in store for us in the future.

Author Bio

Feril Hazem is an enthusiastic content writer working at ThinkPalm. He is a techie and self-motivated unique storyteller with a keen interest in writing about the latest technology updates and industry insights. Off the screen, he is a movie buff, likes playing basketball and listening to music.