The United States has imposed a ban on new foreign-made internet routers, with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adding all consumer routers to its 'Covered List'. This blocks the import and sale of any new devices produced outside the country.
A White House-convened Executive Branch determined that routers manufactured abroad pose 'unacceptable risks' to national security, potentially disrupting the US economy, critical infrastructure and national defence. The FCC warned that malicious actors have exploited security gaps in such devices to attack households, enable espionage and steal intellectual property.
Consumers who already own foreign-made routers may continue using them, and retailers can still sell previously approved models. The move follows investigations into Chinese-made TP-Link routers, which were linked to a spate of cyber attacks, though the company denies any connection to the Chinese government.
The ban mirrors earlier restrictions on foreign technology, including last year's addition of drone maker DJI to the Covered List. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said: '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.'
