Hey, Alexa: California Just Passed Internet of Things Bills

Internet-connected devices sold in California, such as thermostats, televisions, and security cameras, would need reasonable security features by January 2020 under two bills headed to Gov. Jerry Brown (D).

The two identical bills would apply to devices that can connect directly or indirectly to the internet and are assigned internet protocol or Bluetooth addresses. Smart home devices like the Amazon Echo and Google Home would fall under the bills.

The proposals come amid rising privacy and security concerns about Internet of Things devices, including the potential for data collection from users.

The bills intentionally lack specifics about what reasonable security ...