Insecure passwords represent a security risk, especially if the corresponding devices are also allowed into your own network. In order to better protect users, a new law has now been passed in Great Britain.
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As a rule, smart home devices etc. are already delivered with a given password. Actually, these passwords should be changed after setup. But many people are simply too lazy to do it or don’t think about it anymore. This can become a problem.
The standard passwords are often kept quite simple. A combination like “12345” or “admin” is not uncommon. Of course, this is a real treat for potential attackers. A password like this can be cracked within a very short time and automatic scans can search for it on tons of devices at the same time.
To make cyber attacks more difficult in the future, Great Britain has banned such simple standard passwords from April 29, 2024. Manufacturers are now obliged to provide more complex combinations. But this is not the only regulation for more security.
Manufacturers must also indicate the minimum length of time security updates will be available for their products. In addition, a contact option must be set up through which security problems can be reported. The rules apply to all smart devices that are integrated into the home network and/or connected to the Internet.
In the event of violations, companies face hefty fines of up to four percent of global sales. Incidentally, similar regulations are in the starting blocks in the EU. However, a transition period until 2027 is planned.