Trump’s FCC May Undermine Biden’s Cyber Trust Mark Initiative

The US Cyber Trust Mark Program, designed to certify smart home security devices similarly to the Energy Star initiative, may be facing an early exit less than a year after its debut. UL Solutions, the company initially overseeing the program, has announced its withdrawal as the lead administrator, coinciding with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) launching an investigation into potential connections to China.

While the program hasn’t been officially terminated, the departure of its lead administrator leaves its future uncertain. This isn’t the first time the FCC has dismantled a security initiative this year; in November, it rolled back cybersecurity regulations for telecom companies that were established following the 2024 Salt Typhoon hack. Additionally, FCC Chair Brendan Carr has been reviewing testing labs and has decertified several “bad labs” linked to China.

Launched in 2023 during the Biden administration, the Cyber Trust Mark Program aimed to ensure that smart home devices adhere to specific cybersecurity standards, with compliant products featuring a shield icon on their packaging, akin to the Energy Star label. Although it debuted at CES 2025, the certification mark has yet to be seen on any products. The FCC has not provided any updates regarding the program’s status.