FCC Bans Foreign Router Imports, Citing National Security Risks
The FCC has announced a sweeping ban on the approval and sale of consumer-grade routers made outside the US, citing national security concerns under a Trump directive.
In a move aimed at bolstering national security, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced a far-reaching ban on the approval and sale of consumer-grade routers manufactured outside the United States. This decision comes as part of a directive issued by former President Donald Trump, which sought to reduce the reliance on foreign technology in critical infrastructure.
The New Router Restrictions
The FCC's latest action will prevent foreign-made routers from being imported into or sold within the United States. This prohibition applies to both U.S. and international companies that produce routers outside of the U.S. borders. The FCC defines foreign production as any major stage of the manufacturing process, including assembly, design, and development.
Existing router models that have already been approved for sale in the U.S. can continue to be sold, and consumers can continue using any routers they've previously obtained. However, the FCC will not approve any new router models made at least partially outside the U.S. unless the Department of Defense or Department of Homeland Security determines that the device does not pose a national security risk.
Source: Ars Technica
