US Senate pushes for stronger security of internet backbone

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is set to review its oversight of global undersea communications cables, marking the first major revision of its rules since 2001. Undersea cables, which carry over 95% of the world’s internet traffic, are seen as increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats and foreign interference, particularly from China and Russia. On 21 November, FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel plans to address how the commission’s regulations could adapt to the evolving economic and security challenges facing these crucial cables.

A bipartisan group of senators recently urged the Biden administration to prioritise securing the United States’ undersea infrastructure, highlighting concerns about possible sabotage and the growing involvement of Chinese firms in cable laying and maintenance. Washington has already restricted China from participating in key subsea cable contracts, citing espionage risks, and prevented direct connections between US territory and mainland China or Hong Kong.

In recent years, the US has blocked or canceled multiple subsea cable projects linked to China, emphasising the need to protect internet traffic from potential rerouting and mismanagement. The upcoming FCC review underscores the agency’s commitment to ensuring the resilience of global data flows, with potential policy shifts expected to impact both domestic and international internet security.