US Introduces ‘Cyber Trust’ Labels to Safeguard Security Cameras, Refrigerators, and Other Appliances from Cyberattacks

As the holiday season approaches, consumers in the US looking to purchase smart devices may have a new tool to help them make more informed decisions. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has launched the US Cyber Trust Mark Initiative, which aims to help consumers choose products that are less vulnerable to hacking.

Similar to the Energy Star program for energy efficiency, the Cyber Trust Mark Initiative allows manufacturers to display a special label on their products if they meet specific cybersecurity standards. This label, along with QR codes, will provide consumers with access to a national registry containing detailed security information about the device they are considering.

The program covers a wide range of internet-connected devices commonly found in homes, including home security cameras, fitness trackers, refrigerators, smart TVs, and other smart appliances. Manufacturers can apply for the Cyber Trust Mark if their devices meet established cybersecurity criteria, such as secure data storage practices, the ability for consumers to delete data, detection of unusual device behavior, and a commitment to ongoing security updates.

Major industry players like Amazon, Best Buy, Google, LG Electronics USA, Logitech, and Samsung have already expressed support for the initiative. This collaboration between the government and tech companies signals a commitment to raising cybersecurity standards within the smart home market, ultimately empowering consumers to make more secure choices when purchasing smart devices this holiday season.