In these comments filed with the FTC, the Center for Data Innovation argues that there is an enormous potential for the devices that make up the Internet of Things to address many important real-world problems, including how we manage health care, use energy, and protect the environment. Many of these technologies, and their respective benefits, are already being realized, but policy makers have the potential to make or break the Internet of Things. Most importantly, the full potential of the Internet of Things will not be realized unless policy makers embrace a flexible and modern regulatory regime that fosters data-driven innovation. Specifically, policymakers should work to lead by example in the adoption of new technologies, reduce barriers to data sharing, give consumers access to their data, avoid inundating consumers with notices, and regulate the use, rather than the collection, of data.
