The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) has joined officials from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the National Security Council (NSC) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for the launch of the US Cyber Trust Mark programme. This programme will give consumers more information about the cybersecurity of the Internet of Things (IoT)-connected products they buy.
“While walking CES this year, I saw IoT products that improve healthcare, transportation and energy efficiency. While IoT makes our world better, it also tempts bad actors to exploit consumers’ connected devices,” says CTA president and CEO Gary Shapiro. “Research shows consumers want more information on the safety and security of their connected devices, and we agree.”
This announcement was informed by recommendations that CTA made over the past five years. The programme relies on a voluntary, product certification programme that requires manufacturers to use specific security measures. That certification will help educate consumers and businesses about new connected products they’re evaluating or purchasing.
In the coming days, the FCC will launch the rulemaking process to support the Cyber Trust programme. Consumers can expect to see certification-ready products at CES 2024. In the interim, CTA will continue to convene manufacturers, alliances, universities, consumer advocates, and CTA’s own ANSI (American National Standards Institute) accredited standards body to work with federal officials as they craft final rules governing the programme.
As the FCC works to stand up the Cyber Trust Mark programme, CTA, as the voice of the tech industry, will show that government and industry can work together to strengthen incentives for participation, and ensure manufacturers and retailers embrace this critical programme.
“CTA’s work created the foundation for the US Cyber Trust Mark to help consumers identify secure products,” says Michael Bergman, vice president, technology and standards, CTA. “This programme will minimise label footprint on packaging, while allowing for flexibility in displaying web pages for specific security parameters to consumers for participating devices.”
This announcement was held at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building and included a trade-show-style exhibition showcasing the latest technology in internet-connected consumer products, including TVs, washing machines, and a range of consumer appliances.
Stay up-to-date and learn more about CTA’s work on cyber labeling for connected devices.
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