The term “Internet of Things” (IoT) refers to a rapidly
growing network of interconnected devices that communicate with each other
and with the internet. These devices range from smart home appliances to
industrial machinery, and they are changing the way we live and work. However,
as the IoT continues to expand, it raises a number of legal issues that must be
addressed.
اضافة اعلان
In Jordan, IoT is still in its early stages of
implementation and regulation. Currently, IoT issues are regulated by the
traditional legal and regulatory frameworks governing the telecommunications
sector, with no dedicated IoT regulation issued as yet. However, Jordanian
civil law does provide some guidance on electronic contracts.
Top IoT-related concerns
One of the primary legal concerns surrounding the IoT is
privacy. With so many devices collecting data about our daily lives, there is a
risk that this information could be used for nefarious purposes. For example,
through the IoT, hackers could gain access to personal information such as
credit card numbers or medical records. Companies could also use this data to target
advertising or make decisions about employment or insurance coverage.
With so many devices collecting data about our daily lives, there is a risk that this information could be used for nefarious purposes.
As IoT devices collect and transmit vast amounts of data,
there is a risk that this data could be misused or accessed by unauthorized
parties. The Jordanian legal system will need to address this concern and
ensure that appropriate measures are in place to protect the privacy of users.
Another important consideration is the impact of IoT on
sustainability and the environment. As IoT devices become more prevalent, it
will be important to ensure that they are designed and used in a way that
minimizes their environmental impact.
Liability is another major legal issue in the IoT space.
With so many devices connected to the internet, it can be difficult to
determine who is responsible when something goes wrong. For example, if a
self-driving car causes an accident, who is liable — the manufacturer, the
software developer, or the owner of the car?
A precedent for IoT legislation
To address these concerns, lawmakers in US and Europe have
begun to pass legislation aimed at protecting consumer privacy in IoT spaces.
For example, the California Consumer Privacy Act requires companies to disclose
what data they collect and how it will be used. The General Data Protection
Regulation in Europe also provides similar protections for consumers.
As IoT devices become more prevalent, it will be important to ensure that they are designed and used in a way that minimizes their environmental impact.
In addition, to combat cyber-threats, governments have
passed laws requiring companies to implement certain cybersecurity measures.
For example, in 2018 the US passed the IoT Cybersecurity Improvement Act which
requires federal agencies to use only devices that meet certain security
standards.
To address intellectual property concerns, lawmakers have
passed laws aimed at protecting intellectual property rights in the IoT. For
example, the Digital Millennium Copyright Act provides legal protection for
digital content such as software and music.
A call for Jordanian action
In conclusion, while the IoT offers many benefits to
consumers and businesses alike, it also raises a number of legal concerns that
must be addressed. From privacy to cybersecurity to intellectual property
rights and liability, lawmakers must work together to create a legal framework
that protects consumers while promoting innovation and growth in this rapidly
evolving field.
The legal perspective on IoT in Jordan is still in its early
stages, and there is a need for dedicated regulation to address the unique
challenges posed by this technology.
Hamza Alakaleek is a lawyer and tax consultant holding graduate degrees in
International Political Economy, International Business Law, and Law and
Technology from Yarmouk University and University de Montreal, with a focus on
internet of things, artificial intelligence, and data protection.
Read more Opinion and Analysis
Jordan News
.jpg)
.jpg)
