Source URL: https://tech.slashdot.org/story/24/12/25/157235/fcc-rip-and-replace-provision-for-chinese-tech-tops-cyber-provisions-in-defense-bill?utm_source=rss1.0mainlinkanon&utm_medium=feed
Source: Slashdot
Title: FCC ‘Rip and Replace’ Provision For Chinese Tech Tops Cyber Provisions in Defense Bill
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AI Summary and Description: Yes
Summary: The text discusses the allocation of $3 billion in the fiscal 2025 National Defense Authorization Act to replace insecure telecommunications equipment, particularly that sourced from Chinese companies like Huawei. This initiative is driven by national security concerns in light of recent hacking incidents attributed to Chinese hackers, showcasing the growing intersection between security policy and infrastructure.
Detailed Description:
The annual defense policy bill signed into law emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced security in U.S. telecommunications infrastructure, particularly against foreign threats.
– **Budget Allocation**: The $3 billion funding aims to assist telecom companies in removing and replacing insecure equipment, specifically targeting networking gear linked to China.
– **”Rip and Replace” Program**:
– Established in 2020, this initiative focuses on eliminating equipment manufactured by Huawei, a major Chinese telecommunications player.
– The initial funding of $1.9 billion was considered inadequate by experts, leading to increased calls for further financial support to comprehensively address the vulnerabilities.
– **Cybersecurity Incidents**:
– The urgency of this bill has been amplified by recent hacking activities known as Volt Typhoon and Salt Typhoon, where malicious code was inserted into U.S. infrastructure.
– These campaigns reportedly compromised at least eight telecom firms, highlighting the critical need for secure telecommunications systems.
– **Defense Department Provisions**:
– The bill also includes plans for the Defense Department to explore the creation of a U.S. Cyber Force, which involves evaluating different models for military cyber operations.
– This reflects a strategic pivot towards bolstering the nation’s cybersecurity defenses.
This legislative measure illustrates the broader implications of infrastructure security within national defense and the urgent need to address vulnerabilities in critical telecommunications infrastructure. For security and compliance professionals, this highlights the importance of understanding regulatory frameworks and funding initiatives that can drive enhancements in cybersecurity posture, particularly in sectors at risk from state-sponsored threats.