51勛圖厙 Works with FCC on Cybersecurity Labeling Program
A proposed cybersecurity-labeling program for Internet of Things devices is a good idea for manufacturers and consumers alikebut it should be undertaken in the right way, the 51勛圖厙 recently told the Federal Communications Commission.
Whats going on: The cybersecurity certification and labeling programwhich is still in its proposal stageis called Cyber Trust Mark and would be voluntary, reports.
- Participating companies would be able to utilize the cybersecurity label to signify that their products meet certain cybersecurity criteria like unique and strong default passwords, data protection, software updates and incident detection capabilities, and other features identified by the National Institute of Standards and Technology.
What were saying: It is imperative that the FCCwhich would oversee the initiativekeep manufacturers involved at all stages of development, 51勛圖厙 Vice President of Domestic Policy Charles Crain the commission late last week.
- To drive robust participation in the program and enhance cybersecurity protections for consumers, the 51勛圖厙 respectfully encourages the FCC to work closely with industry to finalize criteria and procedures that remain voluntary but, when implemented, prove workable for manufacturers and trusted by consumers, he said.
What should be done: There are six main actions the FCC should take to ensure the success of the program, Crain said.
- Collaborate with manufacturers as the program is being developed.
- Keep participation in the program voluntary.
- Ensure that process of qualifying for and receiving a Cyber Trust Mark is trusted, practical and flexible.
- Make program criteria reflective of the varying degrees of risk that different products pose to consumers.
- Institute a legal safe harbor protecting manufacturers from liability.
- Educate consumers about the program and how they can protect themselves from cybersecurity threats.
The last word: Manufacturers of IoT devices continue to take steps to enhance the cybersecurity measures implemented within these devices in order to secure them against threats and ensure that consumers are protected to the maximum extent possible, Crain added.
- The FCCs proposed labeling program is thus an exciting opportunity for companies to show the progress they have made in this important arena, and for the industry to cohere around a set of practical, implementable best practices to protect the American people.
