GAO Eyes Potential IoT Challenges Including Privacy, Safety, Standards

GAO found “potential challenges” for IoT, including information security, privacy, safety, standards and economic issues, said a 78-page report released Monday. It cited a review of 10 federal agencies -- including the FCC and FTC -- and 12 experts. “FCC staff said that relatively few interference complaints arise from devices that are operating properly and are compliant with regulations,” GAO said. “They also said that most current devices are generally shielded and polite.” The report considers IoT in a global context, and considers challenges of interoperability and standards. “Unexpected sources of interference may pose a challenge to IoT devices,” such as microwaves leaking “waves that can interfere with Wi-Fi access points,” said GAO. “For certain large-scale IoT deployments -- such as in smart cities, connected cars, or applications where large amounts of video data are being transferred -- spectrum needs can be a major issue.” GAO made no recommendations.