FCC Targets Five Chinese Telecoms as Threat to National Security

WASHINGTON – Five Chinese companies are producing telecommunications equipment and services that pose “an unacceptable risk” to national security and the security and safety of U.S. citizens, the Federal Communications Commission announced Friday.

The companies include Huawei Technologies Co., ZTE Corp., Hytera Communications Corp., Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Co., and Dahua Technology Co.  

All have been deemed a threat under the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019.

Jessica Rosenworcel, acting chairwoman of the FCC said the publication of the list represents “a big step” toward restoring trust in the nation’s communications networks.

“Americans are relying on our networks more than ever to work, go to school, or access health care, and we need to trust that these communications are safe and secure,” Rosenworcel said. “This list provides meaningful guidance that will ensure that as next-generation networks are built across the country, they do not repeat the mistakes of the past or use equipment or services that will pose a threat to U.S. national security or the security and safety of Americans.”

Included on Friday’s list were:

— Telecommunications equipment produced or provided by Huawei Technologies Co., including telecommunications or video surveillance services produced or provided by such entity or using such equipment;

— Telecommunications equipment produced or provided by ZTE Corporation, including telecommunications or video surveillance services provided or provided by such entity or using such equipment. 

— Video surveillance and telecommunications equipment produced or provided by Hytera Communications Co., to the extent it is used for the purpose of public safety, security of government facilities, physical security surveillance of critical infrastructure, and other national security purposes, including telecommunications or video surveillance services produced or provided by such entity or using such equipment;

— Video surveillance and telecommunications equipment produced or provided by Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Co., to the extent it is used for the purpose of public safety, security of government facilities, physical security surveillance of critical infrastructure, and other national security purposes, including telecommunications or video surveillance services produced or provided by such entity or using such equipment. 

— Video surveillance and telecommunications equipment produced or provided by Dahua Technology Company, to the extent it is used for the purpose of public safety, security of government facilities, physical security surveillance of critical infrastructure, and other national security purposes, including telecommunications or video surveillance services produced or provided by such entity or using such equipment. 

 The agency said ii will update the list if and when other communications equipment and services are determined to meet the criteria under the law.