From smartphones to smart toys to complete smart home systems – connected devices are increasingly being used by consumers in their everyday lives. A representative Kantar survey commissioned by the Federal Association of Consumer Organizations (vzbv) shows that a large proportion do not feel adequately protected: 70 percent of the Internet users surveyed would like legally stipulated, uniform minimum requirements for their IT that are monitored by recognized bodies to ensure more trust -Security.
“European and national laws to protect consumers when dealing with products are stuck in the analogue era. Digital services and connected devices have completely different security requirements than purely physical products. This gap must be closed urgently,” says Lina Ehrig, head of the digital and media team at vzbv. “When I buy a smart door lock or a connected printer, I need to be confident that it doesn’t have any security vulnerabilities.”
Mandatory minimum requirements for more security
It is currently hardly possible for consumers to evaluate the security of networked or digital products. Often there is only limited and unverifiable information available about how the devices and data used are protected.
The survey shows: A majority of consumers surveyed see a potential risk when using networked devices and applications such as smart home systems, smartphones or digital programs if information is sent or received unencrypted (79 percent), an app has access to The device has a camera, microphone or location data (78 percent) or devices are preset to the lowest security level (76 percent). Three out of four consumers surveyed (75 percent) see a risk if security updates for programs are no longer offered.
Revision of the legal framework required
From a consumer perspective, the existing legal framework for cybersecurity is patchy. The vzbv therefore welcomes the European Commission's announcement that it will present new cybersecurity regulations for digital products and services in the autumn.
The European Commission must place consumers at the center of safety requirements. The abilities, limitations and habits of users must be taken into account so that IT security can be successful. The principles of security by design and security by default must be followed by manufacturers: software products and functions must be designed to be fundamentally secure. Networked devices and applications must be set to the most secure variant by default. In addition, reliable controls are required to ensure that the specifications are adhered to.
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IT security for networked devices and digital services
Opinion | May 2022
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Cyber security: Clear majority for legal regulation and control
Infographic | Survey commissioned by vzbv | May 2022
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Cyber security: High risk awareness among consumers
Infographic | Survey commissioned by vzbv | May 2022
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Method: Representative telephone survey (CATI Bus). Sample size: 1,020 internet users aged 14 and over. Statistical error tolerance: max. +/- 3 percentage points in the total sample. Survey period: May 5th until May 11, 2022. Institute: Kantar.
Source: consumer advice center
Also read: Safety tips for children online
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