FridayOL

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is taking a significant step to bolster national security by proposing new rules that would effectively ban companies using technology from China from connecting undersea telecommunications cables to American shores. This move, announced on Wednesday, is designed to mitigate potential cybersecurity risks and safeguard critical infrastructure.

Why the Crackdown on Chinese Tech?

For years, US officials have expressed growing concerns about the potential for Chinese technology companies, particularly those with close ties to the government, to exploit vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure. Subsea cables, which carry a vast majority of global internet traffic, are seen as a particularly vulnerable target. These cables are essential for communication, data transfer, and global commerce, making them an attractive target for espionage or sabotage.

The FCC’s proposed rules aim to prevent companies that utilize equipment or services from entities like Huawei and ZTE – both of which have been previously targeted by US security concerns – from connecting their cables to the United States. The commission believes that allowing such connections could create backdoors or other vulnerabilities that could be exploited by foreign adversaries.

How Will the Rules Work?

The new regulations will require cable landing license applicants to disclose all equipment and vendors involved in their projects. The FCC will then assess the risks associated with those vendors and deny licenses if they pose a national security threat. This assessment will consider factors such as the vendor’s ownership structure, their relationship with foreign governments, and their history of cybersecurity incidents.

The FCC acknowledges that this move could potentially impact the cost and timeline of deploying new subsea cables. However, officials argue that the security benefits outweigh these potential drawbacks. They are also working to ensure that the rules are implemented in a way that does not stifle innovation or disrupt the global telecommunications network.

Industry Reaction and International Implications

The announcement has already drawn mixed reactions. Some industry experts have praised the move as a necessary step to protect US national security, while others have expressed concerns about its potential impact on competition and costs. Chinese officials have, predictably, criticised the move as protectionist and discriminatory.

This decision also has significant international implications. Many countries rely on subsea cables for their internet connectivity, and the US’s actions could influence how other nations approach the security of their own telecommunications infrastructure. It’s likely to spark further debate about the role of government in regulating technology and the balance between national security and economic interests.

Looking Ahead

The FCC’s proposed rules are currently open for public comment. After the comment period closes, the commission will review the feedback and finalize the regulations. This is just one piece of a broader US strategy to counter perceived threats from Chinese technology companies. As the world becomes increasingly reliant on digital infrastructure, expect to see continued scrutiny and regulation of the technologies that underpin it.