The ever-increasing number of smart or connected devices is also referred to as the “Internet of Things” or “IoT”. Many smart devices are installed in homes, such as thermostats, home security systems and appliances.
A smart device may pose security risks in initial design or manufacturing or because the consumer hasn’t installed the latest update or patch. If the manufacturer is bought out or just decides to no longer support the device, security vulnerabilities can increase. For example, smart watch maker Pebble was acquired and, in December, 2016, announced that warranty support for Pebble watches was no longer available.
On January 4, 2017, the Federal Trade Commission announce its “IoT Home Inspector Challenge” seeking the submission of technical solutions to allow consumers to effectively monitor and install updates to IoT devices within their homes. The best solution will receive a cash prize of up to $25,000. Submissions are due between March 1 and May 22, 2017.
Read the FTC’s press release here. Contact us at Ossian Law regarding any information technology law question.
© 2017 Ossian Law P.C.
UPCOMING PRESENTATIONS & WORKSHOPS
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“2017’s Hot Topics in Information Technology Law”
Ossian Law P.C., Wednesday, January 25th, 5:30- 7:00 p.m.
701 Woodward Heights, Suite 117
Ferndale, MI 48220
Medical device hacking, fake news sites and the law, benefits and risks of artificial intelligence, fiduciary access to digital assets and drone regulation are just a few of the topics that Information Technology attorney and Ossian Law P.C. Founder and CEO Kathy Ossian will cover in this annual informative and interesting session. Hear how new technologies may impact your organization and gain insight toward minimizing risk and liabilities. Complimentary admission includes heavy hors d’oeuvres. Networking from 5:30-6:00 with presentation at 6:00. Space is limited. Register here today!
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“Social Media 2017: Addressing Corporate Risks”
Practicing Law Institute, Wednesday, February 15, 2017
1177 6th Ave.
New York, NY 10036
Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Snapchat, Twitter, Yelp, YouTube and other social media sites are transforming not only the daily lives of consumers, but also how companies interact with consumers. Indeed, even the largest, most conservative blue-chip corporations have embraced social media; one study revealed that, of the Fortune Global 500, 93% were on LinkedIn; 85% had Twitter accounts; 74% had a presence on Facebook; and 64% had a YouTube channel; these numbers will only increase over time.
However, along with the exciting new marketing opportunities presented by social media comes challenging new legal issues. In seeking to capitalize on the social media gold rush, is your company taking the time to identify and address the attendant legal risks? The good news is that, merely by undertaking simple, low-cost precautions, companies seeking to use social media can significantly reduce their potential liability exposure.
Full day event culminates with an in-house panel addresses hot issues and emerging trends, and provides creative solutions (moderated by Kathy Ossian of Ossian Law P.C.) More information available here.