Washington, D.C. – Last week, the Federal Communications Commission announced a ban on the importation of telecommunications and video surveillance equipment from several Chinese manufacturers on the grounds that they pose an unacceptable risk to national security. The ban covers communications equipment, such as cell phones, produced by Huawei Technologies, ZTE Corporation, Hytera Communications, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology, and Dahua Technology.
By blocking Huawei, which is alleged to have aided China in its surveillance activities targeted against its Uigher population, from selling its products in the U.S., the FCC is taking a smart and strategic position in favor of reasonable restraints on the use of technology.
Today, TechNet CEO Linda Moore issued the following statement in support of the ban:
“This is a smart and strategic action from the FCC that protects our national security and demonstrates the appropriate role of the government in regulating technology. TechNet applauds this decision to crack down on Chinese companies that have demonstrated a willingness to use technology to undermine America’s national security and consumer privacy. America’s tech companies are working hard to ensure devices are secure and user privacy is protected in a way that strengthens our national security and allows innovation to flourish. We hope that Washington will continue focusing on common sense technology regulations that will help businesses and individuals take advantage of all the benefits technology offers.”