When reviewing JC-STAR requirements, you will notice one detail is repeatedly emphasized: default passwords.

Most engineers think this is an old, basic issue.No one still uses simple credentials such as admin/admin.

Even so, default password failures remain the top non-compliance item in JC-STAR testing.In the JC-STAR framework, this is not a minor deduction issue — it is a zero-tolerance red line.

1. Why Japan Strictly Restricts Default Passwords

Japan follows a clear security logic:If unauthorized access requires no technical skills, it is not a vulnerability — it is a flawed product design.

Default password risks require no hacking techniques, no reverse engineering, and no specialized tools.Credentials can be easily found on labels, user manuals, or public websites.

From the Japanese consumer perspective:Weak default settings mean the device is inherently unsafe out of the box.Such design defects are unacceptable in the Japanese market.

2. JC-STAR’s Definition of Default Password Is Far Broader

Most manufacturers misunderstand the rule:As long as users can change the password, default settings are acceptable.

JC-STAR defines security differently:Devices must remain secure before users take any active security action.

The following scenarios are all classified as default password risks:

• Universal initial passwords used across all devices
• Passwords printed on housings, packaging, or manuals
• Fixed algorithm passwords generated from SN or MAC addresses
• No mandatory password change upon first use

In short:Any credential that can be mass-predicted or easily obtained is treated as an invalid default password.

3. How Laboratories Audit Default Password Risks

Inspections are not limited to simple login attempts.Evaluators conduct systematic verification:

1. Inspection of uninitialized out-of-box status
2. Verification whether security setup can be skipped
3. Detection of backdoor accounts or engineering access
4. Security status after factory reset

The fourth item is the most overlooked high-risk point for manufacturers.

4. Three Common Misjudgments That Cause Direct Failure

These three seemingly reasonable designs are directly rejected in JC-STAR assessment:

1. Initial passwords generated from SN/MACSerial numbers are usually exposed or queryable through device interfaces, making passwords predictable and mass-exploitable.

2. “Recommended” password change on first useIn JC-STAR rules, the word recommended means optional.Optional security steps cannot eliminate inherent risks.

3. Password updated only on App sideIf local interfaces, legacy protocols, or background access remain unlocked,the device is still considered high-risk despite App-side security improvements.

5. Qualified Design That Meets JC-STAR Standards

Only one core solution is recognized:Mandatory security initialization

Key requirements:

• Users must create a strong password during first boot
• Core functions remain locked until initialization is completed
• Initialization procedures cannot be skipped
• Weak access points are permanently closed after setup

This is not an optional security upgrade — it is the fundamental safety baseline.

6. Easily Overlooked Risk: Factory Reset

Many products revert to default weak status after factory restoration.If remote access remains available after reset,the device will be regarded as repeatedly exposing public security risks.

Qualified design rule:Factory reset does not restore weak default status.The device must require full security re-initialization after restoration.

7. The Real Purpose Behind This Red Line

JC-STAR is not simply forcing manufacturers to add extra security steps.It forces brands to answer one core question:

Is your product still secure under the worst user habits?

• Users do not read manuals
• Users lack cybersecurity awareness
• Users ignore security settings

Products must maintain basic protection even in passive, low-awareness usage scenarios.