New Smart Home Security Seal

The landscape of smart home technology is about to get a significant upgrade with the introduction of a new smart home security seal. This initiative, spearheaded by the U.S. government, aims to provide consumers with a clear and easy way to identify devices that meet robust cybersecurity standards. This seal will soon appear on various internet-connected devices, helping you make informed choices about the safety of the technology you bring into your home.

What is the New Smart Home Security Seal?

The new smart home security seal, officially known as the U.S. Cyber Trust Mark, is a cybersecurity safety label designed for consumer smart devices. These devices range from home security cameras and TVs to internet-connected appliances, fitness trackers, climate control systems, and baby monitors. This mark signifies that a device meets a set of security features approved by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

How the U.S. Cyber Trust Mark Works

Vendors can use the new smart home security seal if their products meet the stringent cybersecurity criteria set by NIST. These criteria include:

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

Consumers will be able to access additional security information by scanning a QR code placed next to the new smart home security seal. This information includes instructions on how to change default passwords, configure the device securely, access automatic updates, view the product's minimum support period, and receive notification if the manufacturer doesn't offer updates.

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Why is the New Smart Home Security Seal Important?

The need for a new smart home security seal stems from growing concerns about cybercriminals remotely hacking into home security systems and exploiting vulnerabilities in insecure home cameras. With the average U.S. household now having a multitude of connected devices, the potential for cyberattacks has become increasingly significant. The new smart home security seal aims to mitigate this risk by providing a visible indication of device security.

Launch and Industry Support

The program is slated to launch in 2025. Companies can soon submit their products for testing to earn the new smart home security seal. Major retailers like Best Buy and Amazon have committed to highlighting labeled products. The program has garnered support from major electronics, appliance, and consumer product makers, including Amazon, Google, Best Buy, LG Electronics U.S.A., Logitech, and Samsung Electronics.

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What Devices Are Not Covered?

While the new smart home security seal aims to cover many smart home gadgets, some devices will not carry this mark. These include:

• Medical devices regulated by the FDA
• Cars and car equipment under NHTSA oversight
• Wired devices (the program focuses on wireless devices)
• Industrial and enterprise gear
• Equipment on the FCC’s Covered List
• IoT products from flagged companies
• Gadgets from companies banned from federal shopping sprees
• Personal computers, smartphones, and routers (for now)

NIST is developing cybersecurity rules for consumer-grade routers which may lead to their inclusion in the future.

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Impact on Consumer Choices

The new smart home security seal is designed to help you, the consumer, make educated decisions about the tech you bring into your home. The program simplifies device security information, offering a clear and easy-to-grasp understanding of the safety of various gadgets. When you're shopping for new smart home devices, look for this label as an indication of a product that meets a higher standard of security.

This initiative will likely influence purchasing decisions, as it offers a quick and easy way to assess the security of a device. By opting for products with the new smart home security seal, consumers can contribute to a more secure connected home environment.