The EU EN 18031 certification introduces a new era of cybersecurity compliance under the Radio Equipment Directive (RED). These regulations essentially add a “cybersecurity lock” to connected and wireless products, ensuring stronger protection for users, networks, and financial assets.
This article summarizes the core framework, key dates, mandatory requirements, and limitations you should know to prepare your products for compliance in 2025.
The EN 18031 series aligns with the RED Directive Article 3(3)(d–f) and focuses on securing three key asset types — network, personal data, and financial assets.
| Standard Part | RED Directive Clause | Core Objective | Typical Product Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| EN 18031-1 | Article 3(3)(d): Device must not harm the network | Protect network infrastructure and prevent misuse | Smartphones, Routers, Smart Home Devices |
| EN 18031-2 | Article 3(3)(e): Protect user privacy and data | Ensure personal data is securely managed | Smart Toys, Wearables, Child Monitoring Devices |
| EN 18031-3 | Article 3(3)(f): Prevent fraud | Protect financial assets and ensure secure transactions | POS Terminals, Payment Systems, Crypto Wallets |
Each part of EN 18031 targets a specific aspect of cybersecurity — making it essential to identify which standard(s) apply to your product before testing begins.
Mandatory Implementation Date:
Starting August 1, 2025, all radio equipment sold in the EU must comply with RED cybersecurity requirements.
Harmonized Standard Adoption:
On January 28, 2025, the European Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2025/138 officially included EN 18031-1, EN 18031-2, and EN 18031-3 in the list of harmonized standards.
This means products meeting EN 18031 standards are presumed to comply with RED cybersecurity clauses — a key advantage for manufacturers seeking smooth EU market entry.
If a product fails to meet certain security design requirements, self-declaration (SDoC) is not allowed — instead, third-party certification from an EU Notified Body (NB) becomes mandatory.
Password Configuration (All Standards)
Devices must not allow users to skip password setup or retain default passwords (violates clauses 6.2.5.1 & 6.2.5.2).
Children’s Device Parental Controls (EN 18031-2)
Child care devices or smart toys must include non-bypassable parental access controls (clause 6.1.3).
Financial Device Security Updates (EN 18031-3)
Devices processing virtual currency or payment data cannot rely on a single security update method (e.g., only digital signatures).
If your device falls under any of the above, plan early for third-party NB certification to avoid launch delays.
The EN 18031 standards are built on three security pillars — General Security, Privacy Protection, and Financial Security.
Access Control & Authentication: Only authorized users or systems may access the device.
Secure Communication: Data transmissions must use encryption (e.g., TLS).
Secure Update Mechanism: Firmware updates must be validated and integrity-checked.
Traffic Control: Network devices should restrict unauthorized traffic.
Data Logging & Deletion: Devices must allow users to view and erase stored data.
User Notification: Users must be informed of data collection and transmission activities.
Privacy-by-Design: Device firmware should minimize unnecessary data storage.
Secure Boot & Integrity Check: Prevents tampering with payment-related firmware.
Fraud Prevention: Continuous monitoring and audit logging required for transaction data.
Multi-Factor Authentication: Recommended for devices handling financial data or crypto wallets.
Implementing EN 18031 compliance is not just about regulatory approval — it’s about building trust and reducing cybersecurity risks.
✅ Avoid penalties and import delays.
✅ Enhance consumer confidence through visible cybersecurity compliance.
✅ Improve product resilience and brand reputation.
Blue Asia Technology provides end-to-end support for EN 18031 compliance, from gap analysis to testing and documentation.
Phone/Whatsapp: +86 13534225140
Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com
Website: www.blueasialabs.com
Share your product type and use case — we’ll guide you on the most efficient certification path and compliance strategy.
Q1: Is EN 18031 certification mandatory for all wireless devices?
Yes. From August 2025, all devices under the RED Directive scope must comply with EN 18031 cybersecurity standards.
Q2: Can a product comply through self-declaration (SDoC)?
Only if it fully meets EN 18031 design requirements. Products with special conditions (e.g., financial or child devices) must undergo NB certification.
Q3: What happens if a product is already RED and CE certified?
You still need to update the technical documentation to include EN 18031 cybersecurity compliance.
Q4: What’s the best time to start preparing for EN 18031?
Start at least 6 months before launch, as cybersecurity testing and NB approval may take 8–16 weeks.
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