Source URL: https://www.theregister.com/2025/01/09/white_house_smart_device_security_label/
Source: The Register
Title: Look for the label: White House rolls out ‘Cyber Trust Mark’ for smart devices
Feedly Summary: Beware the IoT that doesn’t get a security tag
The White House this week introduced a voluntary cybersecurity labeling program for technology products so that consumers can have some assurance their smart devices aren’t spying on them.…
AI Summary and Description: Yes
Summary: The text discusses the White House’s introduction of a voluntary cybersecurity labeling program aimed at enhancing consumer trust in smart devices and improving their security standards. The program encourages manufacturers to undergo compliance reviews and display a Cyber Trust Mark on certified devices, which fosters transparency and accountability in the IoT space.
Detailed Description: The article outlines a newly launched cybersecurity labeling program by the White House aimed at protecting consumers from insecure smart devices. Below are the key points:
– **Program Purpose**: The initiative is designed to provide consumers with a method to evaluate the cybersecurity of their IoT devices, similar to how EnergyStar labels inform about energy efficiency.
– **Oversight and Administration**:
– The program is supervised by the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
– UL Solutions leads a coalition of 11 companies that will administer the compliance reviews.
– **Compliance and Certification**:
– Wireless consumer IoT device manufacturers can submit their products for security compliance reviews at accredited laboratories.
– Products that meet the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) criteria can display the US Cyber Trust Mark and a QR code linking to important product security information.
– **Scope of Devices**:
– The program targets consumer IoT products such as home security cameras, voice-activated devices, smart appliances, and fitness trackers.
– It does not cover medical devices regulated by the FDA, wired products, or industrial equipment.
– **Background**:
– The initiative originated from a 2021 executive order aimed at enhancing cybersecurity following significant cyber attacks.
– Experts emphasize the need for the program to be comprehensive, considering both device security and the security of cloud services where data is stored.
– **Industry Response**: Companies such as Amazon express support for the Cyber Trust Mark, indicating a willingness to collaborate to boost consumer confidence in connected devices.
– **Consumer Impact**: The program aims to empower consumers with more information for making informed decisions regarding their connected devices, potentially moving some responsibility for security from consumers to manufacturers.
This cybersecurity labeling program represents a significant step toward improving transparency and making security a priority in the rapidly expanding IoT market, beneficial both for consumers and manufacturers looking to enhance their product credibility.