[Expert Column] What a Hacked Robot Vacuum Tells Us About IoT Security in Everyday Life

Once considered a rising trend, the Internet of Things (IoT) has now become a cornerstone of modern life. From connected home appliances to smart factories and critical infrastructure, IoT technology forms the foundation of our digitally integrated world.

According to global research firm Statista, the IoT market reached $1.177 trillion in 2023 and is projected to nearly double to $2.227 trillion by 2028. As adoption accelerates, the need for robust device and network security has become more urgent than ever. Because IoT devices function as the “eyes and nerves” of connected systems, even a single breach can result in severe physical and economic consequences.

In response, leading governments around the world are advancing regulatory frameworks to strengthen IoT security. These initiatives aim to establish baseline security requirements while encouraging ecosystem-wide participation—from manufacturers to end users.

The United States launched a cybersecurity labeling program for IoT devices in 2024. This initiative mandates that eligible devices display a label indicating their security posture. Designed to help consumers make informed choices, the program also incentivizes manufacturers to comply with fundamental security practices. The expectation is that security will become a competitive differentiator, driving awareness and innovation across the industry.

In Europe, the EN 303 645 standard sets minimum security guidelines for consumer IoT products. Covering critical areas such as password management, software updates, data protection, DoS attack mitigation, and encryption protocols, the framework represents one of the most comprehensive approaches to IoT security regulation. The European Union is currently working on an updated successor to further enhance and expand this standard.

With regulations emerging across major markets, standardizing global IoT security protocols has become a key challenge. Beyond resolving trade barriers, harmonized regulations could boost investment and streamline cross-border transactions in the ICT sector. For businesses, alignment reduces compliance complexity and eliminates redundant certifications. In the long term, a unified framework could significantly strengthen the resilience and scalability of the global IoT ecosystem.

Recent incidents—such as remote hacking of household robot vacuums—have brought IoT security into the public consciousness. Yet regulations alone cannot eliminate risk. As ZIEN CEO Young-min Cho has repeatedly emphasized, “Security must be viewed as an investment, not a cost—and it must be embedded from the design phase.”

Manufacturers must adopt a security-by-design approach, while users must practice basic cybersecurity hygiene. Ultimately, securing the IoT landscape is a shared responsibility that requires active collaboration among governments, vendors, service providers, and end users. Regulatory bodies must continue to offer clear, predictable guidelines that foster innovation without compromising safety.

Source: Money Today