GCF and IMC Launch Groundbreaking Initiative on IoT Cybersecurity Certification

In an effort to bolster the security standards in the rapidly evolving Internet of Things (IoT) sector, the IoT M2M Council (IMC) has partnered with the Global Certification Forum (GCF). This initiative aims to establish a comprehensive global cybersecurity certification framework specifically for IoT services. The IMC is known as the world’s largest trade association dedicated to the IoT industry, while the GCF has a prominent reputation in mobile and IoT device certification.

The joint task force formed by GCF and IMC seeks to adopt a holistic approach to cybersecurity that encompasses not just the devices, but also the networks and application/cloud platforms that support them. This innovative perspective sets it apart from traditional security certifications that mainly focus on device-level security. The collaboration is expected to address the increasing cybersecurity threats facing businesses and consumers, which have surged dramatically in recent years.

Industry Participation and Support

Several top technology providers, including Aeris, DEKRA, Digi International, and Vodafone, have already joined the task force, signaling a strong commitment from industry leaders to enhance security protocols for IoT. IMC plans to promote this certification among its 28,000 business users, product manufacturers, and app developers. The GCF currently certifies over 600 products each year, and the majority of its certification activities are increasingly related to IoT services.

According to Lars Nielsen, CEO of GCF, the significant rise in security breaches necessitates this initiative. “With radical technology shifts, such as artificial intelligence, addressing the security of all three layers of the IoT stack is essential for providing incremental security improvements. Companies participating in IoT technology advancements must acknowledge this need,” Nielsen affirmed.

Sri Ramachandran, president and CTO of IMC, highlighted that a recent survey showed 41% of responding companies consider enhanced IoT security a competitive advantage that can drive revenue. He noted that businesses are struggling with diverse standards and regulations worldwide. The initiative aims to simplify these challenges across the IoT ecosystem.

Upcoming Presentations and Future Directions

More information regarding this joint task force will be presented at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January, where IMC will host discussions and provide insights on this pivotal initiative.

Call to Action

Organizations interested in contributing to this important endeavor are encouraged to register for participation via the IMC website. This initiative represents a significant move towards securing the IoT landscape, making it imperative for stakeholders in the IoT ecosystem to collaborate for collective cybersecurity enhancement.

Conclusion

The formation of this joint task force by GCF and IMC is a vital response to the urgent need for improved security solutions in the IoT field. By integrating resources and expertise, they aim to set new standards that fortify the entire IoT spectrum against emerging threats. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, ensuring comprehensive and robust security measures will remain a priority for the industry.

For additional details, visit their websites at IMC and GCF.