New Delhi: The White House announced a new cybersecurity labeling program for internet-connected devices, aiming to inform consumers about the security of the products they bring into their homes.
The US Cyber Trust Mark, a voluntary program administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will help Americans make “informed decisions” about the cybersecurity of various devices, from baby monitors to security systems, a White House release revealed. These devices are part of Americans’ daily lives, but concerns about cybercriminals remotely hacking into home security systems and other devices are growing.
The labelling program, according to the formal communication, follows a period of public notice and input over the past 18 months. During this time, FCC Commissioners unanimously voted to authorize the program, adopt final rules, and establish the trademarked shield logo that will be displayed on certified products.
The US Cyber Trust Mark represents a public-private collaboration between companies, consumers, and the government. It incentivizes companies to prioritize cybersecurity in product development and provides consumers with an added level of assurance about the safety of their smart devices as it lets companies test products against cybersecurity criteria set by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology.
In December 2024, the FCC conditionally approved 11 companies as Cybersecurity Label Administrators and selected UL Solutions as the Lead Administrator. The program is expected to be fully operational in 2025, with companies soon able to submit their products for testing and labelling.
The White House said the initiative was launched to address growing concerns among Americans about the rise of cyber criminals remotely hacking into home security systems and other devices. It seeks to educate consumers and provide them with an easy way to assess the cybersecurity of products, similar to how EnergyStar labels help consumers understand energy efficiency, the release added.