“Anyone can rent time on an IoT botnet to attack anyone else. I don’t recommend it,” he said.
Internet-connected devices have become popular because of fun and time-saving applications, but the technology has left things such autos and power plants vulnerable to attack.
“We might have to constrain innovation through regulation. It might be the Internet era of fun and games might be over,” said Schneier.
Though IoT devices, manufacturing, connections and risks are worldwide, a joint government and industry effort by the United States, Europe and Japan could set global standards, he added.
During the House Energy and Commerce session, committee members were divided along party lines whether federal regulation is needed.
Oregon Republican Rep. Greg Walden said he doesn’t want his refrigerator talking to the food police.
Illinois Democrat Jan Schakowsky countered that government watchdogs like the Federal Trade Commission must take the lead in Internet of Things protection.
“You can’t count on industry. They don’t have the financial incentives,” Schakowsky said.
But both sides agreed Internet of Things crooks have the upper hand over consumers because they are light years ahead in technology and savvy.
“We’re playing checkers. They are playing three-dimensional chess,” said Texas Republican Mike Burgess.