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IoT and Industry 4.0

Smart homes have become a reality: From fridges that know when they need restocking, via automated heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems that can control themselves, to self-driving cars – the Internet of Things (IoT) has found its way in our everyday life. The virtual and real world also merge in our economy: Industry 4.0 is the new buzzword for the combination of industry and IoT technologies. In this context, M2M (machine to machine) communication exemplifies a new technical revolution.

Internet of Things raises legal questions

Technology develops so quickly that the law often cannot keep up. The Internet of Things raises legal questions that are not fully covered by existing laws and regulations. The same applies to Industry 4.0 where in particular the division of labour between man and machine as well as between machines needs to be re-defined from a legal perspective.

Legal questions related to Industry 4.0 are:

  • IT security: How do I safeguard my increasingly automated systems against cyber attacks and hackers?
  • Competition law: How do I safeguard confidential business information when machines can communicate with each other?
  • Liability: Who is responsible when failures occur in a completely machine-based process?

The lawyers of our Digital Business Group can answer your Industry 4.0 questions and advise on your individual concepts and business processes. Don’t hesitate to get in touch!