US FCC bans wireless router imports, citing security concerns

The move could dramatically shake up the market for routers, which are primarily made overseas. Read more at straitstimes.com.

WASHINGTON – The US Federal Communications Commission ordered a ban on the import of new models of foreign-produced consumer wireless routers after an interagency panel determined they threaten national security. 

While the FCC said companies could apply for exemptions, the move could dramatically shake up the market for routers, which are primarily made overseas.

Consumers and businesses connect wired internet lines to routers to create Wi-Fi networks for computers, phones, TVs, cameras and other internet-enabled products. 

The action puts further pressure on TP-Link Systems Inc, one of the world’s largest makers of routers.

The company, which was founded in China 30 years ago but which has since set up its headquarters in Irvine, California, is already facing investigations by the Trump administration over concerns that its connections to China could threaten national security. 

“While the rule doesn’t name China, the direction of travel is pretty clear, and it raises the stakes for how the US approaches connected devices going forward,” said Mr Craig Singleton, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defence of Democracies.