The UK has banned the use of weak default passwords, like “1234” or “Admin” in Devices connected to the internet. This is because they strive to ensure that manufacturers meet minimum protection standards against viruses cyber threats and it computer hacking, and guarantee user security.

This ban stems from a proposal made in 2021 in Telecommunications Product and Infrastructure Security (PSTI) Bill.. Since then, the proposal consists of prohibit the use of universal passwords or weak by default on connected devices, including the Internet of Things (IoT).

This new regulation is designed to fulfill consumer protection against computer hacking and it cyber attacks. They require connected smart devices to comply with the “minimum security standards” set by the law, which goes into effect this Monday, April 29.

One of the regulations prohibits manufacturers from implementing it default passwords are weak and easy to guess in Internet-connected products, as described by the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology in a statement on the Government website.

This aims to encourage protection of humans, society and the economy from all possibilities cyber criminalsand increase consumer confidence in the safety of the products they buy and use.

With this law, which is part of the Telecommunications Infrastructure and Product Security (PSTI) regime, which is designed to increase the country’s resilience to disaster threats. cyber attacks and make sure that “malicious interference” does not affect the global economy, the goal is to improve cyber resilience in this country, where 99% of adults own at least one smart device and the average has a smart device at home nine connected devices.

What types of passwords and where are they prohibited?

It means They will not be able to use passwords like “1234” or “Admin” on a device with an Internet connection, such as smart phones, tablets, televisions, speakers, smart watches, video game console or maybe, connected refrigerator. And if you use a commonly used passwordsthe rules indicate that users will be prompted to change it when logging in.

And, data published by the news agency European PressThat smart device Those who are members of one household can be affected by more than 12 thousand hacking attack coming from all over the world in one week.

In total, two thousand 684 were devoted to trying to guess weak password, according to a study by Which? quoted by the Government.

Other cyber restrictions in the UK

Besides that, great Britain introduce other security protections, such as requiring manufacturers to publish contact information so users and companies can be notified to fix bugs and problems.

Manufacturers and retailers must also be honest with consumers regarding the minimum time required to receive the goods security updates important in smart connected devices.

Additionally, consumers and cybersecurity experts can also report any products that do not meet the standards set out in the regulations to the Office of Product Standards and Safety (OPSS).