The era of connected technology is most definitely in full swing. From smartphones to smart refrigerators, internet-connected devices have become a pretty key and normal part in our everyday lives. However, with convenience comes risk, as these devices can be vulnerable to hacking and cyber-attacks.

Recognising the growing threat, the UK government has introduced groundbreaking legislation designed to protect consumers and businesses from these risks. This new law marks the UK as the first country in the world to enforce minimum security standards for smart devices.

The rise of smart devices and the threat of cyber attacks

Smart devices have become ubiquitous, with recent statistics showing that 99% of UK adults own at least one smart device, and the average household owns around nine. While these gadgets offer unmatched convenience, they also present new avenues for cybercriminals to exploit.

In 2016, the Mirai botnet attack served as a wake-up call to the dangers of weak security in smart devices. The attack compromised 300,000 devices worldwide by exploiting easily guessable default passwords like “admin” or “12345.” This botnet was then used to launch a massive attack that brought down major internet platforms, causing widespread disruption. The repercussions were felt globally, including in the UK, where banks like Lloyds and RBS experienced service disruptions due to similar cyber-attacks.

These incidents have served to highlight the need for stronger security measures to protect not only individual consumers but also society and the economy at large.

The new legislation: A world-first in consumer protection

In response to these growing threats, the UK government has introduced new legislation that requires manufacturers of internet-connected devices to implement stringent security measures. This law is not just a recommendation but a legal requirement, making it a significant milestone in the fight against cybercrime.

Key provisions of the legislation that you should know

Ban on weak default passwords

One of the most important parts of the new law is the prohibition of easily guessable default passwords. Devices with generic passwords like “admin” or “password” have long been a weak link in cybersecurity and leave the door wide open to hackers. Under the new regulations, manufacturers must either eliminate these default passwords or ensure that users change them upon initial setup. This simple but effective measure can dramatically reduce the risk of unauthorised access to your devices.

Increased accountability for manufacturers

The new law makes it clear that manufacturers must take responsibility for securing their products. Companies making smart devices will need to build strong security features into their products before selling them, driving home the importance of cybersecurity in tech production. If they don't meet these standards, they could face fines or legal trouble.

Regular security updates

The law also requires manufacturers to tell customers how long their devices will get security updates. These updates are important because they fix weaknesses that hackers could exploit. By making this information easy to find, consumers can choose smart devices with more confidence.

How the new legislation protects you

These new security standards are a big win for consumers, offering benefits like:

Better protection from hackers

With weak default passwords banned and regular security updates required, your smart devices will be much tougher for hackers to break into. This means you can feel more secure using your connected devices at home or work.

More confidence in your devices

Knowing that the devices you buy meet strict security standards will make you feel more confident in the technology. This is especially helpful for those who aren't as tech-savvy and might not be fully aware of the risks of poor device security.

A safer digital world

By setting higher security standards, this law helps create a safer digital environment. As more companies follow these rules, the risk of major cyber-attacks decreases, making the internet safer for everyone.

The impact on businesses and the economy

Beyond just protecting consumers, the new law also has big benefits for businesses and the economy.

Improving business security

For companies that use smart devices, this law adds extra protection against cyber threats. By making sure that workplace devices are secure, businesses can lower the chances of data breaches and the expensive disruptions they cause.

Fuelling economic growth

As people become more confident in the security of smart devices, the potential for economic growth rises. Companies that show they take cybersecurity seriously are likely to see an increase in sales, both at home and abroad. This can lead to more innovation and investment in the tech industry, helping the UK stay strong as a leader in cybersecurity.

What you should do next

While the new legislation is a significant step forward, it’s important to remember that security is a shared responsibility. As a consumer, there are a few steps you can take to protect yourself further:

Change default passwords: If you haven’t already, change the default passwords on all your smart devices. Choose strong, unique passwords that are difficult for others to guess. Make sure you never write them down too.

Keep your devices updated: Regularly check for and install software updates on your devices. These updates often include security patches that address vulnerabilities.

Be informed: Try to stay informed about the latest security threats and best practices. Knowledge is one of your best defences against cyber-attacks, and we have a whole host of resources you can access to help you along the way to being cyber secure!

Final thoughts

The new UK legislation for smart devices is a landmark achievement in the fight against cybercrime. By setting minimum security standards, the law aims to protect consumers and businesses from the growing threat of hacking and cyber-attacks. As the first country in the world to implement such laws, the UK is leading the way in creating a safer digital environment for everyone.

Need some support with your organisation’s cyber security? Contact us today to find out how we can help.