The Internet of Things (IoT) has transformed the global economy, but the laws and regulations governing how IoT devices collect, store, and share data struggle to keep up. Manufacturers and their partners rely on Epstein Becker Green’s experienced, cross-functional legal team to help them protect their intellectual property rights and secure sensitive customer data while furthering innovation.
Anticipating Risk in Uncharted Territory
IoT devices are collecting data from every corner of our lives, from business to education, health care, and communication. As holders of one of the world’s hottest commodities, device manufacturers are assuming new risks far beyond their traditional scope of functionality and reliability. When our clients’ products rely on, interconnect with, and exchange data through third-party hardware, software, and telecommunications services, we help them enter into agreements to ensure continuity of service, maintain performance standards, and uphold privacy and data security mandates.
Furthering Innovation & Protecting Intellectual Property
In a fast-paced and highly competitive IoT marketplace, clients turn to us to protect their new IP, confront licensing issues, and navigate their risks when using third-party IP. We craft software licensing and data rights agreements that anticipate compliance challenges, reduce risks of future liability, and help position clients to succeed in their go-to-market and expansion strategies.
Supporting Data Use Transparency
As health care entities, businesses, and consumers rapidly integrate IoT devices, manufacturers and other third party’s with whom data is shared face the responsibility of providing consumers with notice of their privacy practices, protecting the data they collect, and disclosing what if data is used or disclosed in unintended ways. Though regulators are just beginning to reframe consumer protection laws for IoT device users, transparent marketing and use disclosure practices are paramount. We counsel clients on being transparent with users so they understand how their data is being collected, used, and disclosed in order to minimize the possibility of a future legal action or government investigation.
Cultivating Responsibility Within a Data-Driven Workplace
The use of IoT devices by employers is increasingly pervasive. We give employers the tools they need so they can spot potential data risks through regular policy updates, heightened standards, and frequent training.
