California Law Demands More Security From Connected Devices

California Law Demands More Security From Connected Devices

California is looking to make the Internet of Things more secure.

California is demanding greater security from connected devices and the Internet of Things. Gov. Jerry Brown has signed Assembly and Senate bills that require hardware makers to include "reasonable" security measures for connected devices. All gadgets will require at least some kind of protection against unauthorized data access.

If a device connects to the internet, it will have to require either a preset password, "unique to each device manufactured," or else the ability to generate a new authentication method (like a custom password) on initial setup. This will help strengthen cameras that were vulnerable to attack because they all used the same default password. 

The laws are set to take effect on January 1, 2020, giving tech companies plenty of time to build the features into their products. The companies, however, are still hesitant about complying.

The California Manufacturers and Technology Association (which includes companies like AT&T, Intel and Honeywell) told Government Technology that the state was imposing "undefined rules" and had allegedly created a "loophole" that let imported devices avoid the rules. The Entertainment Software Association, meanwhile, claimed that existing laws already covered reasonable privacy protection.

About the Author

Sydny Shepard is the Executive Editor of Campus Security & Life Safety.

Featured

New Products

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening.

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions.

  • Connect ONE’s powerful cloud-hosted management platform provides the means to tailor lockdowns and emergency mass notifications throughout a facility – while simultaneously alerting occupants to hazards or next steps, like evacuation.

    Connect ONE®

    Connect ONE’s powerful cloud-hosted management platform provides the means to tailor lockdowns and emergency mass notifications throughout a facility – while simultaneously alerting occupants to hazards or next steps, like evacuation.