ACT | The App Association members develop the innovative solutions that will power the growth of the internet of things (IoT). While the rise of IoT holds great promise, it also raises security threats thanks to the increase in networked devices in a wide range of industries. Because of this, companies using IoT devices will require more evolved and dynamic risk management practices. No data is more important to Americans than their own personal information. Our members appreciate the value people place on their personal data and put extensive resources into ensuring the security and privacy of end-user data.
Small businesses represent 99.7 percent of all U.S. firms, and they require assistance in addressing dynamic cybersecurity threats. Our small business members simply do not have the luxury to hire dedicated cybersecurity teams or to dedicate large budgets to hire consultants, which makes these threats an even bigger issue for them. For many of our members, the role of chief security officer may be one of five hats worn by a single employee.
The App Association is a leading voice in the fight to ensure our members and other digital economy innovators have access to the most up-to-date information on cybersecurity and can share their expertise with policymakers.
The App Association is a leading voice in the fight to ensure our members and other digital economy innovators have access to the most up-to-date information on cybersecurity and can share their expertise with policymakers. We engage in numerous public-private partnership initiatives developing strategies and approaches to improve the nation’s cybersecurity risk management posture. This includes, but is not limited to, the development of the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework, the Information Technology and Health Sector Coordinating Councils, and various multistakeholder efforts housed by the Department of Commerce addressing issues like IoT security and software component transparency.
We also work with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), a key federal agency that addresses cybersecurity through its enforcement efforts against unfair or deceptive practices in the marketplace. The FTC’s enforcement efforts related to cybersecurity deeply impact our members.
That is why the App Association is pleased to support the FTC’s release of a new resource, Cybersecurity for Small Business. Notably, the development of this publication was a combined effort of the FTC, the Small Business Administration, the Department of Homeland Security, and NIST to assist small businesses to gain additional insight into cybersecurity. The materials provided help small businesses learn more and incorporate strategies into their business’s routine and is written in plain language to help those who are not familiar with cybersecurity. The guide includes sections on physical security, ransomware, phishing, imposters, scams, and many more helpful cybersecurity tips.
We encourage our members to utilize this new important resource from the earliest stages of software development. More can be found at https://www.ftc.gov/tips-advice/business-center/small-businesses.