Companies sign up to government’s 13-point plan to keep internet devices safe
Centrica Hive and HP have become the first companies to sign up to new government guidelines designed to keep internet-enabled devices safe from hackers.
The 13-point list asks manufacturers to ensure that personal data is protected and software kept up to date.
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It is the latest attempt by the government to protect Brits’ privacy and safety and prevent large-scale cyber security attacks.
Over 420m devices are expected to be connected to the internet within the next three years, and many products, from children's toys to fridges and alarm systems, lack proper protection.
The government plans will encourage producers to embed security in the design process, rather than as an afterthought.
Duncan Jones, head of research, Thales eSecurity said: “With consumers prioritising convenience and functionality over security — six in ten do not change the default security settings on their digital assistants — it's down to manufacturers to ensure security is embedded into devices from the point of creation.”
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The guidelines, which are voluntary, are the first of their kind in the world, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport said.
Cabinet office minister David Lidington said: “The UK is leading the way internationally with our new code of practice, to deliver consumer devices and services that are Secure by Design.”