White House press release or official government documentation

U.S. Government to Launch Cyber Trust Mark for Secure Internet-Connected Devices, Including SOHO Routers, in 2025

Jan 7, 2025, 06:10 PM

The U.S. government is set to launch the Cyber Trust Mark, a cybersecurity labeling program for consumer internet-connected devices in 2025. Initially planned for 2024, the program aims to help consumers identify products that meet certain cybersecurity standards developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), similar to the Energy Star label for energy efficiency. The initiative, announced by the Biden administration, will allow companies to submit their products for testing by one of 11 approved companies. Certified products are expected to be available on store shelves in 2025. The program targets devices such as routers, home security cameras, smart speakers, and baby monitors, which are often vulnerable to hacking due to weak default passwords and lack of security updates. U.S. deputy national security adviser for cyber and emerging technology Anne Neuberger stated that the second phase of the initiative will focus on improving the security of routers used in small offices and home offices (SOHO). Retailers like Best Buy and Amazon will highlight products bearing the Cyber Trust Mark, which will feature a QR code for consumers to access detailed cybersecurity information. The White House is also finalizing an executive order that will mandate federal agencies to purchase only Cyber Trust Mark-certified products starting in 2027.