Cybersecurity Risks Presented by Smart Security Devices

06 Mar 2025

IoT technologies require a different approach to safety, efficiency, and user convenience

The life safety and security industry is undergoing a major transformation with the rise of smart security devices. AI-powered surveillance cameras, biometric access control systems, and cloud connected alarm systems are redefining how we approach safety, efficiency, and user convenience. However, as these technologies evolve, so do the cyber risks and compliance challenges facing manufacturers, regulators, and users.  Ensuring these devices remain secure, reliable, and safe is critical to their success in the market.

The Complexity of Compliance for Smart Security Devices

Smart security devices are built on a combination of complex technologies: wireless communication, AI, IoT, and cloud computing. Each brings unique compliance challenges that can impact the development, deployment, and maintenance of these devices:

• Cybersecurity and Data Privacy:
  These devices collect and transmit sensitive data, making them targets for cyber-attacks.  Manufacturers must adhere to stringent data protection regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe, California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), and potentially the EU Radio Equipment Directive. Beyond legal requirements, devices must also be designed with cybersecurity in mind, incorporating encryption, secure software updates, and vulnerability mitigation plans.
• Interoperability Standards:
  In the increasingly connected world of smart security, ensuring that devices can communicate and work together is critical. Compliance with widely adopted standards such as Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Bluetooth is necessary to achieve seamless interoperability. Region-specific standards can also add another layer of complexity, making it essential to stay up-to-date on local requirements.
• Functional Safety and Reliability:
  Devices used in life safety and security applications must perform reliably in critical scenarios. Compliance with functional safety standards, like UL 294 for access control systems or EN 50131 for alarm systems ensures that devices can be trusted to operate safely and effectively in critical situations.
• Global Regulatory Variations:
  Navigating the international landscape of smart device regulations requires manufacturers to meet varying requirements across different regions. These may include electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards, wireless frequency allocations, and electrical safety regulations. For example, compliance with FCC regulations in the U.S. differs from CE marking in Europe or IC regulations in Canada.

Overcoming Compliance Challenges in the Smart Security Industry

As the demand for smart security systems grows, so does the urgency to address compliance challenges. Some of the key hurdles faced by manufacturers include:

• Cybersecurity Risks:
  With network connected devices, security risks—such as hacking, data breaches, and unauthorized access—are a significant concern. Implementing industry best practices and adhering to cybersecurity standards like EN 18031, ETSI EN 303 645 and UL 2900 is essential for mitigating these risks.
• Cross-Device Communication:
  In a connected ecosystem, smart security devices need to operate smoothly with other systems. This requires strict adherence to interoperability standards to ensure that devices can communicate effectively across various networks and platforms.
• Global Compliance Complexity:
  Given the international nature of the smart security market, manufacturers must navigate a patchwork of regional regulations. Each region may have different technical requirements for wireless communication, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and electrical safety, making compliance a complex and resource-intensive task.

Emerging Trends in Smart Security Device Compliance

As the industry continues to evolve, new trends are pushing the boundaries of both innovation and compliance. For instance, the integration of 5G technology into smart security systems is raising new challenges related to communication speeds, security protocols, and network resilience. Additionally, the use of AI in surveillance and biometric systems is introducing concerns about privacy, bias, and ethical considerations, requiring manufacturers to stay ahead of evolving standards and regulations.

By working with Intertek, manufacturers gain access to industry-leading insights, streamlined testing and certification processes, and the assurance that their devices meet the highest standards of security and reliability.

Smart security is shaping the future of life safety, but compliance challenges must be addressed to unlock its full potential. Stay ahead of regulations, invest in security-by-design principles, and work with a trusted compliance partner to ensure your products lead the market in both innovation and safety.