ECONOMY & WORK
MONEY 101
NEWS
PERSONAL FINANCE
NET WORTH
About Us Contact Us Privacy Policy Terms of Use DMCA Opt-out of personalized ads
© Copyright 2023 Market Realist. Market Realist is a registered trademark. All Rights Reserved. People may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Offers may be subject to change without notice.
MARKETREALIST.COM / NEWS

This New Cybersecurity Label Tells You if Your Gadget Can Be Hacked Easily

Set to launch in 2024, the Cyber Trust Mark, designed as a shield with a microchip will indicate if a device meets specific cybersecurity criteria.
UPDATED AUG 24, 2023
Cover Image Source: Pexels/ Ekaterina Bolovtsova
Cover Image Source: Pexels/ Ekaterina Bolovtsova

In a world where everything from baby monitors to household appliances is becoming 'smart' and interconnected, the need for robust cybersecurity measures is more critical than ever. Unfortunately, many Internet of Things (IoT) devices lack even basic protections against hacking, leaving users vulnerable to cyberattacks. The U.S. government has taken a significant step towards improving IoT security by introducing the U.S. Cyber Trust Mark, a label that will indicate whether a device is equipped with proper cybersecurity measures, per Vox. How will this initiative impact the safety of our connected gadgets?

Image Source: Pexels/ clark cruz
Image Source: clark cruz/Pexels

Over the years, the IoT has increasingly become a target for cyberattacks due to the proliferation of vulnerable devices and the lack of adequate security measures. Cybersecurity experts have raised concerns about this growing threat and the numbers back up their worries. According to Check Point Software, a cybersecurity provider and researcher, the number of cyberattacks through IoT devices has seen a significant surge in recent years.

To address the cybersecurity challenges posed by IoT devices, President Biden issued an executive order in May 2021 aimed at improving the nation's cybersecurity. Buried within this order was a call for the development of a consumer labeling program for IoT devices. The program would help users identify which products have proper cybersecurity protections.

Image Source: Pexels/Drew Williams
Image Source: Drew Williams/Pexels

The Cyber Trust Mark, designed as a shield with a microchip, is set to be launched in 2024. This label will indicate that a device meets specific cybersecurity criteria. While some details of the program are still being finalized, certain features can be expected such as secured data transmissions, access controls, software updates, user-controlled passwords, and data deletion.

Although the Cyber Trust Mark is a voluntary program, several major companies have already pledged their support, including Amazon, Best Buy, LG, Samsung, Qualcomm, Logitech, and Google. The presence of this label on IoT devices could become a significant factor for consumers in their buying decisions. While some experts advocate for mandatory regulations for IoT products, the label is seen as a crucial first step in encouraging informed purchasing decisions.

Despite its potential benefits, the Cyber Trust Mark faces certain challenges. One concern is that labeled devices might be sold at a premium due to increased cybersecurity costs, potentially leading consumers to choose cheaper, unlabeled alternatives. Additionally, the label won't apply to devices that pre-date the program, leaving many older devices in homes without this certification.

Pixabay | Pexels
Image Source: Pixabay/Pexels

The introduction of the Cyber Trust Mark marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle to secure the IoT landscape. While it won't be an overnight solution, it could ignite healthy competition among manufacturers to prioritize cybersecurity and privacy for consumers. The label's success will depend on effective implementation, consumer adoption, and continued efforts to educate users about digital security.

Although the Cyber Trust Mark will be launched next year, it is just the beginning of a longer journey toward achieving a safer IoT ecosystem. As cyber threats continue to evolve, the government, businesses, and consumers must remain vigilant in upholding cybersecurity standards and fostering a secure and trustworthy IoT environment.

MORE ON MARKET REALIST
While the contestants believed they had the truth backing them, they also had great obstacles.
1 hour ago
The guest who expected the item to be worth $1,500 was visibly shocked after learning its true value.
10 hours ago
IHOP is a go to place for many who crave pancake in America and many turned up to defend it.
12 hours ago
Even the host, Drew Carey didn't believe what just happened and had to take a few steps backward.
14 hours ago
There have been instances when guests even lost their balance and gasped after the price was revealed.
1 day ago
Retail chains like Costco are usually reliable but sometimes, the products can be quite concerning.
1 day ago
O'Leary was told by the entrepreneur that he will rethink his decision when he sees graffiti anywhere.
1 day ago
The enthusiasm of contestants is seen both during games as well as celebrations that follow.
1 day ago
The case that could've been a waste of time actually made her day with a hilarious moment.
1 day ago
Drew Carey knows how to get the most out of a hilarious situation and that's exactly what happened.
2 days ago
People have also pointed out glitches on screen, showing how carefully they observe details of production.
2 days ago
Things have become a little weird on the show lately, with unusual questions popping up on the screen.
2 days ago
Dogs usually don't get a say in courtrooms but not every courtroom has Judy Sheindlin as the judge.
2 days ago
US-based Apple product owners could get paid per device if the settlement is approved.
2 days ago
The customer who was influenced by the "Tips for Jesus" movement, left everyone disappointed.
3 days ago
Baseball cards are highly sought after especially if they are vintage, which is what these were.
3 days ago
While some viewers on TikTok advised the woman to sue the fast food chain, others were divided.
3 days ago
The big wheel requires some skill and strength while a lot of it is about luck in the end.
3 days ago
Classic musical instruments might be out of circulation but they could still fetch a high price.
4 days ago
He even walked up to the contestant and made a gesture to slap them after an incorrect answer.
4 days ago