November 16, 2023 at 01:04PM
A similar organization to the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) should be created to ensure consumer software security. Software should meet basic security and safety standards and be easily understood and implemented by consumers. Safety features should be in place by default, but users need to actively use them. Rating systems could warn consumers about the security profile of software and devices, allowing them to make informed choices. Users should also review and modify default settings. A simple safety rating system aligned with cybersecurity policies could enhance consumer understanding of software security.
The meeting discussed the possibility of creating a consumer software security organization similar to the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The mission of this organization would be to ensure software meets basic security and safety standards and is user-friendly for consumers. Currently, cars need to meet safety standards before being sold, but software does not have the same requirement. The meeting also mentioned the need to make it easier for Americans to protect themselves and their data from digital crimes.
It was noted that many software and device users are unaware of the security and privacy settings available and how they can impact their safety. The meeting emphasized the importance of default safety features and making sure users are aware of and use those features. The idea of creating safety ratings for consumer software was also discussed, similar to the safety ratings provided by NHTSA and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for vehicles. These ratings would help consumers make informed choices about the functionality and safety of software.
The meeting acknowledged the challenge of releasing bug-free software but stressed the importance of warning customers about default settings and encouraging them to review and modify those settings. This warning should be accessible and easy to understand.
It was also discussed that users have a role in initiating their own security and privacy review of the software and devices they use. Currently, there are guides available to help users configure important settings, but not many users take advantage of them. It was suggested that a simple safety rating system aligned with cybersecurity policies could help ensure that consumers have a basic understanding of how to keep themselves and their software and devices safe and secure.