Your smart home gadgets will soon receive a new security seal of approval.

The White House has announced a new initiative to improve the security of internet-connected devices in American households.

A new cybersecurity safety label, the U.S. Cyber Trust Mark, will be added to smart products sold in the United States later this year.

This software is designed to assist you in making well-informed choices regarding the safety of the smart gadgets you introduce into your household.

What is the U.S. Cyber Trust Mark?

The Cyber Trust Mark, a label for consumer smart devices, indicates that a device complies with NIST-approved security features.

How does it work?

If vendors meet NIST's cybersecurity criteria, they can label their products with the Cyber Trust Mark logo. These criteria include:

• Using unique and strong default passwords
• Providing software updates
• Implementing data protection measures
• Incorporating incident detection capabilities

Scanning a QR code next to the Cyber Trust Mark label will provide consumers with extra security information. This information encompasses:

• Instructions for changing the default password
• Steps for securely configuring the device
• Details on automatic updates and how to access them
• The product's minimum support period
• Notification if the manufacturer doesn't offer updates for the device

Why is this important?

As the number of connected devices in the average U.S. household continues to rise, with 21 devices per household, there is a growing concern about cybercriminals hacking into home security systems and malicious actors tapping into insecure home cameras.

When will we see it?

In 2025, the program will be launched, allowing companies to submit their products for testing to obtain the label. Major retailers like Best Buy and Amazon have pledged to showcase labeled products. The program has received backing from prominent electronics, appliance, and consumer product manufacturers, including Amazon, Google, Best Buy, LG Electronics U.S.A., Logitech, and Samsung Electronics.

What's not on the Cyber Trust Mark menu?

Not all of your tech devices will receive the U.S. Cyber Trust Mark seal of approval, as it only covers a limited range of smart home gadgets.

• The FDA will not be approving your smart pacemaker.
• No Cyber Trust Mark on your fancy new electric vehicle as it falls under the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's watchful eye.
• Wired devices: This program is all about wireless wonders.
• Industrial and enterprise equipment: Its focus is on consumer products rather than factory settings.
• Any equipment that is on the FCC's blacklist or is manufactured by companies on that list.
• IoT products from companies flagged for national security concerns
• Gadgets made by companies banned from federal shopping sprees

NIST is currently focusing on developing cybersecurity rules for wireless consumer IoT products, but it is uncertain whether personal computers, smartphones, and routers will receive the Cyber Trust Mark at this time.

Although the Cyber Trust Mark may not be present on all of your technology tools, it serves as a strong foundation for securing your connected homes from cyber threats.

Kurt’s key takeaways

The U.S. Cyber Trust Mark simplifies device security for consumers in our interconnected world. With its easy-to-understand information, this program eliminates the confusion often associated with technology jargon.

What is your opinion on the U.S. Cyber Trust Mark and its potential impact on your future purchasing decisions for smart home devices? Will you actively seek out this label when shopping for new gadgets? Please share your thoughts by writing to Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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