Privacy and the Internet of Things

The Internet of Things has captured the attention of industry, journalists, academics, policymakers, and the public. Many articles, books, and reports detail the economic and technological possibilities of a world full of connected sensing devices, but few provide an in-depth discussion of the IoT’s privacy implications, especially for a general audience.

This report addresses that gap by examining American and European privacy concepts, values, and methods and their application in the IoT. Dr. Gilad Rosner explores what’s at stake for society as IoT technology evolves, and reviews different frameworks that can be brought to bear on IoT privacy risks.

Despite sound bites and pundits declaring the death of privacy, it remains a vital, shifting conversation about values and norms relating to the flow of information. This report will help business leaders, policymakers, funders, and the public engage in a constructive dialogue about privacy at a time when connected devices are spreading throughout the human environment.

With this report, you will:

• Learn the various definitions of the Internet of Things
• Explore the meaning of privacy and survey its mechanics and methods from American and European perspectives
• Understand the differences between privacy and security in the IoT
• Examine major privacy risks implied by the proliferation of connected devices
• Review existing and emerging frameworks for addressing IoT privacy risks
• Find resources for further reading and research into IoT privacy