Cybersecurity labelling for smart devices aims to help people choose items less likely to be hacked

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre talks about a cybersecurity certification and labeling program at the White House in Washington, on July 18, 2023. Smart devices like baby monitors, fitness trackers and Internet-connected appliances will soon be eligible for labels certifying that they meet federal cybersecurity standards. Federal officials said Wednesday that the first ‘Cyber Trust’ labels could appear in time for the holiday shopping season. The White House announced the labels last year to help consumers avoid devices that are vulnerable to hacking. — AP

WASHINGTON: Consumer labels designed to help Americans pick smart devices that are less vulnerable to hacking could begin appearing on products before the holiday shopping season, federal officials said May 22.

Under the new US Cyber Trust Mark Initiative, manufacturers can affix the label on their products if they meet federal cybersecurity standards. The types of devices eligible for labels include baby monitors, home security cameras, fitness trackers, refrigerators and other internet-connected appliances.