The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is moving ahead with implementing its U.S. Cyber Trust Mark program for wireless internet of things (IoT) devices by seeking administrators to certify the use of the agency’s IoT security labeling by product manufacturers who demonstrate that they are complying with the labeling program’s rules.
The agency voted earlier this year to create the voluntary cybersecurity labeling program for wireless IoT devices including home security cameras, internet-connected appliances, fitness trackers, garage door openers, and baby monitors.
Under the program, qualifying consumer smart products that meet cybersecurity standards will be able to bear the U.S. Cyber Trust Mark label on their products. The label will feature a QR code that consumers can scan for more security information on those products.
The third-party cybersecurity labeling administrators, the FCC said this week, will manage evaluating product applications, granting permission to use the security label, and educating consumers.
The agency will also designate a lead administrator to act as a liaison between the FCC and the labeling administrators. The lead administrator will “conduct stakeholder outreach to identify/develop and recommend technical standards and testing procedures, and collaborate with CLAs, the FCC, and other stakeholders to develop and execute a consumer education campaign,” the commission said.
A public notice issued by the agency runs down the process to apply for administrator roles.
“We live in a world where more and more devices in your home require an internet connection. But these smart devices that make our lives easier and more convenient must also be protected from bringing malware and other kinds of malicious activity into your home,” commented FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel.
“That is why the FCC is taking the next step in getting our Cyber Trust Mark program up and running as quickly as possible,” she said. “This label will help empower consumers to make informed purchasing decisions while providing incentives for companies to make their products more secure.”
