UL Solutions Named Lead Administrator in First-Ever US Federal Cybersecurity Labeling Program

Rhea-AI Summary

UL Solutions (NYSE: ULS) has been selected by the FCC as the Lead Administrator for the new U.S. Cyber Trust Mark program, a first-ever federal cybersecurity labeling initiative. The company will develop standards and testing procedures for qualifying smart products to display the certification symbol.

The voluntary program aims to help consumers make informed decisions about smart home products through a cybersecurity safety label. UL Solutions will create a national registry of certified products accessible via QR codes on labels, providing detailed product information. The program, which began in August 2023, saw UL Solutions become the first organization selected as administrator after applications opened in September 2024.

Positive

• Selected as Lead Administrator for FCC's new cybersecurity certification program
• Expands company's role in growing cybersecurity market
• Strengthens position as authority in product safety certification
• Creates new revenue stream through certification services

Negative

• None.

Insights

Tech Expert

This FCC appointment positions UL Solutions as a key player in shaping U.S. cybersecurity standards for smart devices. The Lead Administrator role grants significant influence over certification criteria and testing procedures that will impact the entire IoT industry. Being first-selected demonstrates UL Solutions' strong standing in cybersecurity certification. The program's voluntary nature allows flexibility, but market pressures may make certification essential for competitive smart device manufacturers.

The QR code-linked national registry adds a modern dimension to consumer protection, potentially creating a new revenue stream through certification services. This aligns with UL Solutions' expansion into cybersecurity offerings while leveraging their established safety certification expertise. The program could become an industry standard, similar to UL's traditional safety certifications, positioning the company for long-term growth in the rapidly expanding IoT security market.

Market Research Analyst

This appointment represents a significant market opportunity as the IoT device market is projected to grow substantially. The Cyber Trust Mark program creates a new certification revenue stream while establishing UL Solutions as the primary authority in smart device cybersecurity standards. The company's selection as Lead Administrator before other organizations indicates strong competitive positioning in this emerging market.

The program's consumer-facing nature and government backing could drive widespread adoption, potentially making certification a de facto requirement for smart device manufacturers. This could lead to steady, recurring revenue as manufacturers seek certification for new products and renewals. The initiative also strengthens UL Solutions' market position in the growing cybersecurity sector, complementing their traditional safety certification business.

Company selected to lead development of FCC’s cybersecurity standards and testing procedures of qualifying smart products to display new certification symbol, the U.S. Cyber Trust Mark

NORTHBROOK, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- UL Solutions Inc. (NYSE: ULS), a global leader in applied safety science, has been selected by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission to help lead the implementation of the new U.S. Cyber Trust Mark program, which will equip qualifying smart products, such as voice-activated speakers and kitchen appliances, with a cybersecurity safety label.

UL Solutions was named Lead Administrator of the program and a Cybersecurity Label Administrator (CLA), responsible for identifying or developing the program standards and testing procedures to recommend to the FCC for approval. UL Solutions will support the FCC and other stakeholders in establishing the technical requirements and other details that will help launch and grow the program.

The first of its kind for the U.S. government, the voluntary Cyber Trust Mark program is designed to help consumers make informed decisions about the products they bring into their homes, differentiate trustworthy products in the marketplace and create incentives for manufacturers to meet cybersecurity standards.

UL Solutions will also work with the FCC and program stakeholders to develop a national registry of certified products that consumers can access via QR code on the label. The registry will have more detailed information about each product. Additionally, UL Solutions will serve as liaison between the FCC and other CLAs, as well as other key stakeholders.

“As a leader in safety science for 130 years with an expanding list of cybersecurity offerings, we’re honored to receive this designation to help develop standards that will help consumers make more informed decisions,” said Chanté Maurio, UL Solutions vice president and general manager, Identity Management and Security. “As smart devices become increasingly integrated into our daily lives, it’s crucial that we trust these products are designed, built and managed to adhere to high security and privacy standards. Taking this leadership role is yet another way we’re working for a safer and more secure world.”

The Cyber Trust Mark program began in August 2023 when the FCC sought public comment on how to create it. In March 2024, the FCC adopted rules, based on public input, establishing a framework that included the need for guidance from third-party administrators with cybersecurity expertise, experience in certification programs and ties to the stakeholder community.

Applications to become an administrator opened in September 2024, and UL Solutions was the first organization to be selected. UL Solutions met the program criteria to be conditionally approved as a CLA and satisfies the additional Lead Administrator program criteria and requirements.

For more information, visit the Cyber Trust Mark site.

About UL Solutions

A global leader in applied safety science, UL Solutions (NYSE: ULS) transforms safety, security and sustainability challenges into opportunities for customers in more than 110 countries. UL Solutions delivers testing, inspection and certification services, together with software products and advisory offerings, that support our customers’ product innovation and business growth. The UL Mark serves as a recognized symbol of trust in our customers’ products and reflects an unwavering commitment to advancing our safety mission. We help our customers innovate, launch new products and services, navigate global markets and complex supply chains, and grow sustainably and responsibly into the future. Our science is your advantage.

Source Code: ULS-IR

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241217411870/en/

Investors:

Dan Scott / Rodny Nacier, ICR Inc.

IR@ul.com

Media:

Kathy Fieweger

Senior Vice President - Communications

Kathy.Fieweger@ul.com

312-852-5156

Source: UL Solutions Inc.

FAQ

What is UL Solutions' role in the US Cyber Trust Mark program?

UL Solutions (NYSE: ULS) has been appointed as Lead Administrator, responsible for developing cybersecurity standards and testing procedures for the program, and will manage a national registry of certified products.

When did the FCC's Cyber Trust Mark program begin?

The program began in August 2023 when the FCC sought public comment, with rules adopted in March 2024 and administrator applications opening in September 2024.

What products will be eligible for the US Cyber Trust Mark certification?

Qualifying smart products, such as voice-activated speakers and kitchen appliances, will be eligible for the cybersecurity safety label certification.

How will consumers access information about Cyber Trust Mark certified products?

Consumers can scan QR codes on product labels to access a national registry containing detailed information about certified products.

Is the FCC's Cyber Trust Mark program mandatory for manufacturers?

No, the Cyber Trust Mark program is voluntary, designed to incentivize manufacturers to meet cybersecurity standards and help consumers identify trustworthy products.