ARM in bid to standardise IoT security industry

LONDON: Faith in the security of baby monitors took a hit when researchers discovered some could be compromised and turned into surveillance devices, but UK computer chip designer ARM has unveiled a proposed solution.

The firm, owned by SoftBank Group Corp, has developed a security framework for so-called Internet of Things (IoT) devices that, if adopted widely, could help instill consumer confidence and boost sales.

“We’ve talked to a lot of companies and they are excited,” Rob Coombs, security director of ARM’s IoT Device Group, said in an interview. “We believe we have wide industry support.”

The Internet of Things is an umbrella term for everyday devices – from factory equipment, street lights and automobiles, to home appliances and children’s toys – that are connected to computer networks in order to be more functional, or “smart.”

While many manufacturers are already bringing such devices to market, there has been no agreement on security standards for them. This is holding back widespread adoption by both consumers and businesses, according to surveys conducted in 2016 by the Mobile Ecosystem Forum, a trade body for the mobile industry, and analyst firm 451 Research.

The new security framework ARM is recommending has three components: the first involves a common agreement about exactly what threats connected devices face. ARM’s security analysts will work with academic researchers and others in the electronics industry to supply this information.