Information privacy: connected devices: labeling.
The enactment of AB 2392 ensures that connected devices marketed in California meet certain security criteria, which is crucial in an era where privacy breaches and cyber threats are increasingly prevalent. By adopting NIST guidelines, the legislation aims to bolster consumer confidence regarding the security of their connected devices while potentially influencing manufacturers to prioritize cyber resilience in product design. This move is part of a broader trend towards tighter regulation of technology products to protect personal data.
Assembly Bill No. 2392, introduced by Assemblymember Irwin, significantly amends California's Civil Code to enhance information privacy for connected devices, aligning with national cybersecurity efforts. It mandates manufacturers of connected devices to equip their products with reasonable security features that are appropriate to their nature and function. Moreover, the bill provides manufacturers with the option to comply by using a labeling scheme established by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), which sets a standard for cybersecurity labeling for consumer IoT products.
The general sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be positive among proponents, who view it as a necessary step in safeguarding consumer information privacy. However, there may be concerns from some manufacturers regarding the implications of compliance costs and technical challenges associated with meeting the new standards. Overall, there's a recognition of the importance of cybersecurity in today's digital landscape, though some stakeholders might critique the practicality of implementing NIST's guidelines across diverse product ranges.
One notable point of contention centers around the definition of 'reasonable security features' and how compliance will be enforced. While the bill allows for compliance via NIST standards, questions remain regarding the flexibility afforded to manufacturers and the implications for smaller companies unable to meet stringent requirements. Additionally, the repeal of certain older provisions in favor of this streamlined approach may provoke discussions about ensuring that consumer protections are not diluted in the transition.