New Global Cybersecurity Certification Initiative for IoT Launched by GCF and IMC

Introduction

In a significant development for the Internet of Things (IoT) industry, the IoT M2M Council (IMC) has announced a partnership with the Global Certification Forum (GCF) to initiate a global cybersecurity certification for IoT services. This initiative, spearheaded by two of the most prominent organizations in the IoT landscape, aims to overhaul the current security certification framework, making it more comprehensive and applicable across devices, networks, and cloud platforms.

The Joint Task Force

The GCF and IMC have established a dedicated task force to explore the feasibility of a holistic approach to IoT security certification. Unlike existing certifications that primarily focus on device-level security, this innovative strategy encompasses the entire stack of IoT technology. This means it will address not just the devices, but also the networks and application platforms that are critical for the functioning of IoT services.

Lars Nielsen, CEO of GCF, emphasized the urgency of this initiative in light of the increasing frequency of cybersecurity breaches and the rapid evolution of technologies such as artificial intelligence. He noted, “Securing all three layers of the IoT stack is the only way to ensure enhanced security. The companies participating in this effort understand the significance of advancing IoT technology securely.”

Goals and Expectations

The initiative specifically aims to create a unified standard that can serve IoT companies worldwide. Recent research conducted by IMC has indicated that a significant percentage of organizations see improved IoT security as a competitive advantage that can drive revenue generation. The joint task force is, therefore, working to create standards that will be accessible and applicable across various markets, minimizing disparate regulations.

IMC’s President Sri Ramachandran pointed out that differing standards and regulations around the world present a major challenge for IoT providers. He expressed hope that the new certification system would help alleviate these complications, creating a more streamlined process for compliance across different jurisdictions.

Industry Participation

A large number of leading technology and service providers in the IoT sector have already committed to this joint initiative. Some notable participants include Aeris, DEKRA, Digi International, Element Material Technologies, and Vodafone. These companies recognize the need for enhanced security measures and are eager to play a role in shaping the future of IoT security standards.

The IMC has plans to actively promote this certification system to its extensive network of 28,000 members, which includes professional users, product manufacturers, and application developers. GCF, on the other hand, is already responsible for certifying over 600 products annually, covering a wide range of devices, including smartphones and IoT devices, thereby solidifying its position as a key player in certification within the IoT domain.

Future Developments

Additional insights and developments about this initiative will be shared during the upcoming Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January, where IMC will host a roundtable discussion. As the IoT industry grapples with evolving security challenges, this initiative could pave the way for more secure IoT deployments that bolster consumer confidence and contribute to long-term growth in the sector.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as digital threats become more sophisticated, the collaboration between GCF and IMC signifies a crucial step toward bolstering cybersecurity in IoT services. With a unified certification framework, the initiative stands to not only enhance the security measures in place but also promote a more robust and secure IoT ecosystem across the globe. Companies interested in contributing to this important work can register for participation through the IMC’s official channels.

For further details regarding this initiative, companies can visit IMC’s registration page.