As more and more companies jump on the smart technology bandwagon that the Internet of Things ecosystem has created, the risks therein are creating a policy headache for the UK Government. The lack of government-approved standards risks individuals’ own security and privacy protection needs. As more and more companies, some with lax approaches to security, create IoT technologies the risks therein are even more prominent for society-at-large.

HM Government wants to create a new trusted labelling system that allows consumers to know whether the IoT device has a unique default password system, the longevity of patch updates and a public point-of-contact for cyber security vulnerabilities. The Digital Minister, Margot James wants to roll out this voluntary code of conduct scheme with trusted generic labelling to help improve accountability.

According to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport:

“Many consumer products that are connected to the internet are often found to be insecure, putting consumers privacy and security at risk. Our Code of Practice was the first step towards making sure that products have security features built in from the design stage and not bolted on as an afterthought.

These new proposals will help to improve the safety of Internet connected devices and is another milestone in our bid to be a global leader in online safety.”