Rethinking Wireless Router Providers' Cybersecurity Strategies after the FTC Case Against D-Link

May 2017 | 9 pages | ID: R019A2C8C18EN
Market Intelligence & Consulting Institute (MIC)

Abstracts

In early 2017, the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) filed a lawsuit against D-Link, a major wireless router brand in Taiwan, for failing to take reasonable steps to secure its wireless routers and IP (Internet Protocol) cameras, leaving consumers vulnerable to hackers. This however is not the first time for the FTC to sue a networking equipment provider. In 2014, the agency sued ASUS, another Taiwan-based wireless router vendor, over product security flaws, and entered into a settlement with the company later on. As the FTC takes one after another networking equipment provider to court, it is recommended that companies follow the lawsuits closely, and examine their own security practices.

Contents

1. BACKGROUND

1.1 Lax Security Allegations from the FTC and D-Link
1.2 Another Router Security Flaws Filed by FTC Settled

2. IMPLICATIONS BEHIND THE FTC CASES

2.1 FTC Brings IoT Privacy and Security to the Attention of IoT Vendors
2.2 Router is Often the Target for Hackers

3. MIC PERSPECTIVE

3.1 Networking Equipment Providers Better Prepare Themselves Prior to Entering the Developed Markets
3.2 Strengthening the Cybersecurity of Software as Key to Brand Image and Market Share Protection

APPENDIX

Glossary of Terms

LIST OF COMPANIES

ASUS
D-Link
FTC
Micronet
Tenda
TP-Link
TRENDne

List Of Figures

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1. Router as the Central Nervous System of the IoT