What the U.S. Cyber Trust Mark Means When Shopping for Smart-Home Devices
The FCC created a voluntary cybersecurity labeling program for wireless consumer smart products. Here is what the label is meant to tell shoppers—and what it does not guarantee.
Last updated: October 7, 2026.
Security cameras, smart speakers, doorbells, appliances, and baby monitors all connect more of the home to the internet. The FCC’s voluntary IoT cybersecurity labeling program is designed to give shoppers another signal when comparing connected products.
What the Label Is Designed to Show
The FCC framework is intended to identify qualifying wireless consumer IoT products that meet baseline cybersecurity standards. The accompanying QR code can direct shoppers to information such as the product’s support period and software-update practices.
Why Support Periods Matter
A connected device can remain physically usable long after the manufacturer stops providing security updates. Before buying, check how long the product is expected to receive patches.
Questions to Ask Even With a Label
- Does the device support automatic security updates?
- Can you enable multi-factor authentication?
- What data does the device collect?
- Can core features work if the cloud service ends?
- How long is software support promised?
Do Not Forget Your Home Network
Device security also depends on account passwords, router settings, software updates, and how many people have access to the account.
Related reading: The FTC Active Listening case explained · Impersonation scams in 2026 · Personalized pricing and smarter comparison shopping
The Bottom Line
The Cyber Trust Mark can make cybersecurity easier to compare at the point of sale. Still check the support period, update policy, account security options, and the amount of data a smart product needs to function.
Source: FCC — Voluntary Cybersecurity Labeling Program for Smart Products.
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