USA bans foreign-made routers

The USA is now halting all new sales of consumer routers manufactured abroad. The measure means that new models will not receive FCC approval and thus cannot be imported or sold on the American market, according to a press release from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The decision is based on a national security assessment showing that foreign-produced routers can pose serious cybersecurity risks and create vulnerabilities in supply chains. Routers have been linked to previous cyberattacks against American infrastructure, including during operations Volt, Flax, and Salt Typhoon, according to the FCC. Already installed routers and previously approved models are not affected by the ban. Consumers can continue to use their devices, and retailers may sell routers that have previously received an FCC license. Router manufacturers can apply for so-called conditional approval via the Department of War or the Department of Homeland Security. Only routers that have received this approval can continue to be imported and sold in the USA. FCC Chairman Mark Carr emphasizes that the measure aims to protect American cybersecurity, critical infrastructure, and supply chains from potential risks