As technological advances make our homes more intelligent, so too grows the demand for enhanced security measures across all devices. In response to this, the federal government is taking action to simplify the process of identifying secure devices for consumers. The Biden-Harris administration has introduced the “US Cyber Trust Mark” initiative, aimed at labeling and certifying IoT (Internet of Things) devices – including items such as baby monitors and alarm systems – that feature robust cybersecurity.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is tasked with establishing the cybersecurity criteria required for consumer-grade routers by the close of 2023. Without robust security features, these routers could be exploited by malicious entities for surveillance and cyber attacks on other devices. The criteria will consider aspects such as incident detection capabilities and strong default passwords to decide if a product qualifies for the certification and label.
Simultaneously, the US Department of Energy is collaborating with National Labs and other partners to devise an effective strategy to categorize smart meters and power inverters as compliant with cybersecurity standards.
To brand all certified products, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is registering a national trademark and plans to generate a QR code linking to a database of products. “The intention was not to introduce a label indicating a product was certified and secure, and then would remain secure indefinitely,” explained a White House official. “The QR code will provide real-time information about continuous compliance with cybersecurity standards.”
Leading companies such as Logitech, Best Buy, Samsung Electronics, and Amazon have conveyed their support for this initiative and pledged to enhance cybersecurity in their products.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Cyber Trust Mark
What is the “Cyber Trust Mark” initiative?
The “Cyber Trust Mark” is an initiative introduced by the US government, specifically the Biden-Harris administration, to certify and label Internet of Things (IoT) devices that meet robust cybersecurity standards.
Who will set the cybersecurity standards for consumer-grade routers?
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is responsible for establishing the cybersecurity criteria for consumer-grade routers.
What is the role of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in this initiative?
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is filing for a national trademark for all certified items under this initiative. Additionally, it plans to create a QR code linking to a database of products certified under the “Cyber Trust Mark” initiative.
How will the “Cyber Trust Mark” handle ongoing security concerns?
The “Cyber Trust Mark” initiative includes a QR code on certified devices, which provides real-time updates on the device’s ongoing compliance with cybersecurity standards.
What companies have shown support for the “Cyber Trust Mark” initiative?
Companies such as Logitech, Best Buy, Samsung Electronics, and Amazon have expressed their support for the “Cyber Trust Mark” initiative and have indicated their intentions to enhance cybersecurity in their product offerings.
More about Cyber Trust Mark
- US Government’s “Cyber Trust Mark” Program
- National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
- Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
- US Department of Energy
6 comments
Now if they could just stop my fridge from chatting with my toaster… LOL! But seriously, good move. Thumbs up!
anyone else worried about ‘continuous compliance’? Sounds like constant monitoring to me…smells a bit fishy if you ask me
this is great news! finally some1 is taking cybersecurity seriously…better late than never I guess. 😉
this’ll be handy for choosing new devices. QR code idea is smart, keepin the info upto date.
Well done, NIST! Can’t wait to see the standards and how they’ll be upheld. Lot of work ahead, but we need this!
not sure why it took so long but hey, at least we’re heading in the right direction. lookin forward to seeing this in action.