Bosses behind ‘smart’ devices such as televisions, toys and speakers found in millions of homes in the UK will be expected to build in tough new security measures that last the lifetime of the product, as part of plans to keep the nation safe from cyber crime.
Estimates show every household in the UK owns at least 10 internet-connected devices and this is expected to increase to 15 devices by 2020, meaning there may be more than 420 million in use across the country within three years. Recent high-profile breaches putting people’s data and security at risk include attacks on smart watches, CCTV cameras and children’s dolls.
Developed in collaboration with the National Cyber Security Centre, manufacturers and retailers, the UK government’s Secure by Design review lays out plans to embed security in the design process rather than bolt it on as an afterthought. The government will work with industry to implement a rigorous new code of practice to improve the cyber security of consumer, internet-connected devices and associated services.
