California Bans Weak Passwords in Connected Devices

California Bans Weak Passwords in Connected Devices

California has passed a law that sets higher standards for passwords.

Weak passwords on network connected devices have been plaguing the cybersecurity industry for years. As a way to inch forward in the battle of default passwords, California has passed a law that will make it nearly impossible for companies to use weak passwords after 2020. 

The state has passed a law, called the Information Privacy: Connected Devices bill, that sets higher security standards for network-connected devices made or sold in the region. It remains that each gadget has "reasonable" security features. 

This can mean a unique password for each and every device manufactured, or a start-up procedure that forces the user to generate their own password when deploying the device for the first time.

“There’s always more to do with information security, but sometimes targeted legislation addressing a specific problem can be effective," Tim Erlin, VP of product management and strategy at Tripwire, said. “Weak passwords are a problem, but this bill aims to address a more challenging and serious problem with poor default security in vendors’ products. It’s important that vendors see security as their responsibility, even after the customer takes possession of the product.”

Tech companies have until 2020 to change their connected devices to reflect the new law, and there will be consequences if the company does not comply. For instance, a customer can now sue if it is found that the hacked device's manufacture ignored the rules of the bill. 

About the Author

Sydny Shepard is the Executive Editor of Campus Security & Life Safety.

Featured

  • Data Driven, Proactive Response

    As cities face rising demands for smarter policing and faster emergency response, Real Time Crime Centers (RTCCs) are emerging as essential hubs for data-driven public safety. In this interview, two experts with deep field experience — Ross Bourgeois of New Orleans and Dean Cunningham of Axis Communications — draw on decades of operational, leadership and technology expertise to share how RTCCs are transforming public safety through innovation, interagency collaboration and a relentless focus on community impact. Read Now

  • Integration Imagination: The Future of Connected Operations

    Security teams that collaborate cross-functionally and apply imagination and creativity to envision and design their ideal integrated ecosystem will have the biggest upside to corporate security and operational benefits. Read Now

  • Smarter Access Starts with Flexibility

    Today’s workplaces are undergoing a rapid evolution, driven by hybrid work models, emerging smart technologies, and flexible work schedules. To keep pace with growing workplace demands, buildings are becoming more dynamic – capable of adapting to how people move, work, and interact in real-time. Read Now

  • Trends Keeping an Eye on Business Decisions

    Today, AI continues to transform the way data is used to make important business decisions. AI and the cloud together are redefining how video surveillance systems are being used to simulate human intelligence by combining data analysis, prediction, and process automation with minimal human intervention. Many organizations are upgrading their surveillance systems to reap the benefits of technologies like AI and cloud applications. Read Now

  • Right-Wing Activist Charlie Kirk Dies After Utah Valley University Shooting

    Charlie Kirk, a popular conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, died Wednesday after being shot during an on-campus event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah Read Now

New Products

  • Connect ONE’s powerful cloud-hosted management platform provides the means to tailor lockdowns and emergency mass notifications throughout a facility – while simultaneously alerting occupants to hazards or next steps, like evacuation.

    Connect ONE®

    Connect ONE’s powerful cloud-hosted management platform provides the means to tailor lockdowns and emergency mass notifications throughout a facility – while simultaneously alerting occupants to hazards or next steps, like evacuation.

  • EasyGate SPT and SPD

    EasyGate SPT SPD

    Security solutions do not have to be ordinary, let alone unattractive. Having renewed their best-selling speed gates, Cominfo has once again demonstrated their Art of Security philosophy in practice — and confirmed their position as an industry-leading manufacturers of premium speed gates and turnstiles.

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions.