WASHINGTON, DC - Four bipartisan Energy and Commerce Committee leaders sent a letter today to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai urging the agency to closely examine the security of fifth-generation (5G) infrastructure and technology as part of the newly rechartered Communications Security, Reliability and Operability Council (CSRIC), CRSRIC VII.
The letter was signed by Energy and Commerce Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), Energy and Commerce Republican Leader Greg Walden (R-OR), Communications and Technology Subcommittee Chairman Mike Doyle (D-PA) and Communications and Technology Subcommittee Republican Leader Bob Latta (R-OH).
“The ubiquitous deployment of broadband, including next generation technologies such as 5G, is a priority as we work to ensure every American has access to affordable, reliable, and high-speed internet," the bipartisan committee leaders wrote to Pai. “As our U.S. network operators, from the largest to the smallest, gear up for significant infrastructure buildout for 5G and other advanced technologies, security should be a critical consideration and associated rules and regulations should be as clear as possible."
American intelligence and defense agencies have expressed concern that companies controlled by foreign governments are increasingly manufacturing critical equipment in our nation’s communications infrastructure, and that those companies could have an incentive, or even an obligation, to use their network equipment to engage in espionage against U.S. interests and national security. The FCC has a responsibility to ensure that the country’s communications networks are secure and used for the promotion of safety and property, as required by the Communications Act.
“Although 5G security is apparently not an explicit focus of CSRIC VII, you have the opportunity to expand to additional issues as you so choose," the bipartisan committee leaders continued. “We believe that policymakers and industry alike would benefit greatly from a thoughtful, careful consideration of these important issues by the FCC and CSRIC. We hope you will consider this as you select members and determine the next steps for CSRIC VII."
