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US Cyber Trust Mark FCC plan overview:
- Who: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced plans to launch a new ‘Cyber Trust Mark’ for smart devices.
- Why: The FCC says the mark will help consumers make more informed decisions about what devices to trust with their data.
- Where: The mark would apply to products sold in the United States.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced plans to initiate a new “Cyber Trust Mark” for smart devices, saying the mark will help consumers make more informed decisions about what devices to trust with their data.
The FCC announced Aug. 10 that it is now seeking public comment on its proposal to create a voluntary cybersecurity labeling program that would provide consumers with “clear information about the security of their internet-enabled devices.”
The proposed program — in which qualifying products would bear a new U.S. Cyber Trust Mark — would help consumers differentiate trustworthy products in the marketplace and create incentives for manufacturers to meet higher cybersecurity standards, the FCC said.
It said the program would be similar to the Energy Star program, which was created to help consumers identify energy-efficient appliances and encourage more companies to produce them in the marketplace—but for more cyber secure smart devices.
The FCC said it created the mark in response to growing concerns about the security of interconnected devices as they become more ubiquitous in U.S. households.
“There are now so many new devices — from smart televisions and thermostats to home security cameras, baby monitors, and fitness trackers — that are connected to the internet,” FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said.
“Just like the ‘Energy Star’ logo helps consumers know what devices are energy efficient, the Cyber Trust Mark will help consumers make more informed purchasing decisions about device privacy and security.”
FCC opens to the proposal to public comment
Although the labeling itself is voluntary, participating manufacturers would have to adhere to certain requirements, the FCC said.
According to an FCC fact sheet, the labels would be based on criteria developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology.
It said the logo would appear on packaging next to a QR code that could be scanned for more information.
The proposal was formally adopted by the commission Aug. 6 and released Aug. 10. The public will have a chance to weigh in before the commission votes on whether to finalize it. The first round of comments will be due 30 days after publication in the Federal Register.
What do you think about the FCC plan for a Cyber Trust Mark? Let us know in the comments!
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