Mozilla and ThingsCon Launch IoT Security Certification Mark

Mozilla and ThingsCon Launch IoT Security Certification Mark

Mozilla and ThingsCon announced Thursday the launch of the Trustable Technology Mark, designed to help customers tell if an Internet of Things-connected device is designed with strict privacy and security measures.

  • By Jessica Davis
  • Dec 07, 2018

Mozilla and ThingsCon announced Thursday the launch of the Trustable Technology Mark, designed to help customers tell if an Internet of Things-connected device is designed with strict privacy and security measures.

“IoT devices are only becoming more widespread and more advanced — they live in our kitchens and bedrooms, and they access our calendars and our conversations,” ThingsCon co-founder and Mozilla fellow Peter Bihr said. “As a result, consumers should have answers to important questions like What personal data does this product collect? How is that data stored? Who has access to that data? And can I easily export that data?”

The Trustable Technology Mark requirements focus on privacy and security. For a product to achieve certification, it has to be evaluated by neutral ThingsCon experts based on the following five criteria:

  • Privacy & Data Practices: Is the product designed using state-of-the-art data practices and respectful of user rights?
  • Transparency: Is it made clear to users what the device does and how data might be used?
  • Security: Is it designed and built using state-of-the-art security practices and safeguards?
  • Stability: How robust is the device and how long of a life cycle can a consumer reasonably expect?
  • Openness:  How open are both the device and the manufacturer’s processes? Is open data used or generated?

Manufacturers of these devices can also self-certify their devices, and their self-assessments are published openly for the community to read.

Once a device has successfully stood up to the assessment, the maker is allowed to use the Trusted Technology Mark on marketing materials and packaging for that device.

About the Author

Jessica Davis is the Associate Content Editor for 1105 Media.

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