USA: FCC approves a voluntary cybersecurity labelling

 

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has recently approved the establishment of a voluntary cybersecurity labeling initiative for wireless consumer Internet of Things (IoT) products. Under this initiative, consumer smart products meeting rigorous cybersecurity standards will feature a label, including a newly introduced “U.S. Cyber Trust Mark,” aiding consumers in making informed purchases, distinguishing reliable products in the market, and encouraging manufacturers to adhere to higher cybersecurity benchmarks.

With this decision, the Commission has implemented the regulations and structure necessary for the program’s progression. Key points of the initiative include:

• The U.S. Cyber Trust Mark logo will initially be displayed on qualifying wireless consumer IoT products meeting the program’s cybersecurity criteria.
• Alongside the logo, a QR code will offer consumers easily accessible details regarding the product’s security, such as its support duration and whether software updates and security patches are automatic.
• The voluntary program will depend on collaboration between the public and private sectors, with the FCC overseeing operations and approved third-party label administrators overseeing activities such as evaluating product applications, authorizing label usage, and educating consumers.
• Compliance testing will be conducted by accredited laboratories.
• Eligible products may include home security cameras, voice-activated shopping devices, internet-connected appliances, fitness trackers, garage door openers, and baby monitors.

Furthermore, the Commission invites public feedback on potential additional disclosure requirements. This includes inquiries into whether a product’s software or firmware is developed or deployed by entities located in countries posing national security concerns, and whether customer data collected by the product will be transmitted to servers situated in such countries.

To find out more about regulatory requirements for electric bikes and scooters, please contact the Product Compliance Institute directly.