(See proposed logos here: https://www.fcc.gov/cybersecurity-certification-mark)
Overview:
A new cybersecurity certification and labeling program was announced in July 2023, the “U.S. Cyber Trust Mark,” aimed at helping consumers choose smart devices that are less susceptible to cyberattacks. This initiative is part of a broader effort to protect American consumers and their privacy.
Key Points:
· The U.S. Cyber Trust Mark” program is proposed by Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel. The program aims to enhance cybersecurity across common devices such as smart refrigerators, televisions, fitness trackers, and more.
· Several major electronics, appliance, and consumer product manufacturers, retailers, and trade associations have voluntarily committed to enhancing cybersecurity for the products they sell. These include Amazon, Best Buy, Google, LG Electronics U.S.A., Logitech, and Samsung Electronics.
· The “U.S. Cyber Trust Mark” will be a distinct shield logo applied to products that meet established cybersecurity criteria. This will provide consumers with tools to make informed decisions about the relative security of products they choose to bring into their homes.
· The FCC is expected to seek public comment on the proposed voluntary cybersecurity labeling program, which is expected to be operational in 2024. The program will leverage stakeholder-led efforts to certify and label products based on specific cybersecurity criteria published by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
· The FCC plans to use a QR code linking to a national registry of certified devices to provide consumers with specific and comparable security information about these smart products. The Commission also plans to establish oversight and enforcement safeguards to maintain trust and confidence in the program.
· NIST will undertake an effort to define cybersecurity requirements for consumer-grade routers, a high-risk type of product that, if compromised, can be used to eavesdrop, steal passwords, and attack other devices and high-value networks.
· The U.S. Department of Energy announced a collaborative initiative with National Labs and industry partners to research and develop cybersecurity labeling requirements for smart meters and power inverters, essential components of the future smart grid.
· Internationally, the U.S. Department of State is committed to supporting the FCC to engage allies and partners toward harmonizing standards and pursuing mutual recognition of similar labeling efforts.
Implications and Analysis:
From a cybersecurity and privacy perspective, this initiative is a significant step forward in enhancing the security of smart devices and protecting consumers. The labeling program will not only help consumers make informed decisions about the products they purchase but also incentivize manufacturers to prioritize cybersecurity in their product design and development.
The focus on consumer-grade routers is particularly noteworthy and an important vector to protect, given their critical role in home networks and their potential to be exploited for cyberattacks. The initiative by the Department of Energy to develop cybersecurity labeling for smart meters and power inverters also underscores the importance of securing the infrastructure of the future smart grid.
However, the success of this program will depend on the robustness of the cybersecurity criteria, the effectiveness of the enforcement mechanisms, and the level of consumer awareness and understanding of the labeling system. It will be crucial for the FCC and other stakeholders to engage in continuous dialogue and collaboration to ensure the program’s effectiveness and adapt to evolving cybersecurity threats.
Resources:
What the proposed mark will look like: https://www.fcc.gov/cybersecurity-certification-mark
The actual White-House announcement: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/07/18/biden-harris-administration-announces-cybersecurity-labeling-program-for-smart-devices-to-protect-american-consumers/
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