New Program May Help You Choose More Cyber-Secure Devices
The voluntary program is aimed in part at helping people make better-informed purchasing decisions about the cybersecurity of smart devices.


Joey Solitro
Do you know how secure your smart device is from cyber criminals? The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) aims to help with that.
The agency voted this week to create a voluntary cybersecurity labeling program to help consumers identify smart devices that meet widely accepted security and privacy standards.
The aim is help people make informed purchasing decisions, differentiate trustworthy products in the marketplace and create incentives for manufacturers to meet higher cyber security standards, the FCC said.

Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
Under the program, a new shield logo entitled “U.S. Cyber Trust Mark” will appear on products meeting the cybersecurity standards. The logo will appear on packaging alongside a QR code that can be scanned for the details on the product's security, including the timeline for security support and whether software patches and security updates are automatic, the FCC said.
“Just like the ‘Energy Star’ logo helps us know which devices are energy efficient, the Cyber Trust Mark will help us make informed choices about the security and privacy of Internet of Things products we bring into our homes and businesses,” FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel said in a statement.
The FCC said it is also seeking public comment on additional potential disclosure requirements. This includes information on whether software or firmware in the products is developed or deployed by a company that is located in a country that presents national security concerns and whether customer data is collected by the product and sent to servers located in such a country.
Smart device numbers multiply
The move comes as the number of smart devices is skyrocketing, with some groups estimating that more than 25 billion connected devices will be in operation by 2030, the FCC said. In the first six months of 2021, there were an estimated 1.5 billion-plus cyberattacks against smart devices.
Based on criteria developed by the Commerce Department’s National Institute of Standards and Technology, the program builds on significant public and private sector work already underway concerning smart device cybersecurity and labeling.
Last July, the Biden administration announced plans to launch the program, saying that it would raise cybersecurity standards across common devices including smart refrigerators, microwaves, televisions, climate control systems and fitness trackers.
Several electronics, appliance and consumer product manufacturers, retailers and trade associations have already made voluntary commitments to increase cybersecurity for their products, the administration said. These include Amazon, Best Buy, Google, LG Electronics U.S.A., Logitech and Samsung Electronics.
- Roku Breach Affects Thousands of Accounts
- 23andMe Sees Backlash for Updating Service Terms Before Massive Data Breach
- Truepill Data Breach Exposes Personal Information of 2.3 Million Patients
- Is Identity Theft Protection Worth It?
Profit and prosper with the best of Kiplinger's advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and much more. Delivered daily. Enter your email in the box and click Sign Me Up.

Esther D’Amico is Kiplinger’s senior news editor. A long-time antitrust and congressional affairs journalist, Esther has covered a range of beats including infrastructure, climate change and the industrial chemicals sector. She previously served as chief correspondent for a financial news service where she chronicled debates in and out of Congress, the Department of Justice, the Federal Trade Commission and the Commerce Department with a particular focus on large mergers and acquisitions. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and in English.
- Joey SolitroContributor
-
The Five Social Security Blind Spots Retirees Often Miss
Understand how benefits work before applying, so you don’t lose money for which you qualify.
-
Stock Market Today: S&P 500, Nasdaq Hit New Highs After Vietnam Trade Deal
Ahead of a key July 9 tariff deadline, President Trump said the U.S. has reached a trade deal with Vietnam.
-
Amazon Resale: Where Amazon Prime Returns Become Your Online Bargains
Feature Amazon Resale products may have some imperfections, but that often leads to wildly discounted prices.
-
I Got Laid Off at 59 with an $800,000 401(k). What Are My Options?
If you've also recently been laid off, don't panic! Here's expert advice on what to do.
-
A Financial Checklist for Your College-Bound Kids
Is your child heading off to college this fall? If so, make sure they're prepared and protected in these four key areas.
-
Home Equity Evolution: A Fresh Approach to Funding Life's Biggest Needs
Homeowners leverage their home equity through various strategies, such as HELOCs or reverse mortgages. A newer option: Shared equity models. How do those work, and what are the pros and cons?
-
Is It Worth Getting a Free iPhone Through T-Mobile?
T-Mobile offers a free iPhone 16 Pro with select plans, including a 55+ option. Is the incentive worth the switch over?
-
What About Those ‘Guaranteed’ Life Insurance Ads?
Guaranteed life insurance policies can sound tempting if you've been declined for insurance elsewhere. Here are four downsides and one alternative.
-
Cord Cutting Could Help You Save Over $10,000 in 10 Years
How cutting the cord can save you money and how those savings can grow over time.
-
The Top Fourth of July Fireworks and Celebrations Across America
From Boston to San Diego, these iconic celebrations light up the sky — and the spirit of Independence Day.