Critics call FCC router rule a ‘big swing’ that could create more supply chain uncertainty
Critics call FCC router rule a ‘big swing’ that could create more supply chain uncertainty
https://cyberscoop.com/fcc-bans-foreign-routers-critics-warn-about-supply-chain/
Publish Date: 2026-03-24 13:40:00
Source Domain: cyberscoop.com
The Federal Communications Commission’s move to ban foreign-made routers touches on a real threat, but critics say the agency rule is overly broad, practically unworkable and doesn’t meaningfully address weaknesses in router security that have led to major breaches on American governments and businesses.
Under the Secure Equipment Act and Secure Networks Act, the FCC may ban foreign technology manufacturers if they are deemed a national security risk. But the federal government has almost always opted to narrowly target specific foreign companies with known or problematic connections to foreign adversaries, like Chinese telecom Huawei or Russian antivirus firm Kaspersky Labs.
The restrictions announced Monday, however, simply ban all routers “produced in a foreign country” except those granted conditional approval by the departments of Defense or Homeland Security.
The order imposes a sweeping and immediate halt to the purchase of non-American routers and Wi-Fi services for government agencies and businesses, along with unanswered questions about where to buy next and what to do with the foreign devices already embedded in their networks.
In justifying the decision, FCC Chair Brendan Carr cited a March 20 White House-led interagency report that concluded foreign-made routers pose “unacceptable” risks to U.S. national security.
“Following President Trump’s leadership, the FCC will continue [to do] our part in making sure that U.S. cyberspace, critical infrastructure, and supply chains are safe and secure,” Carr said.
U.S. policymakers have worried about the potential cybersecurity risks of relying on technology and equipment from countries like China or Russia, where local laws compel domestic companies to cooperate in national security investigations and hand over sensitive data.
In 2024, members of Congress called for the Department of Commerce to investigate Chinese Wi-Fi and router makers like TP-Link,…
