US launches national security unit to combat cyberattacks on telecom sector

The FCC has established a national security unit to strengthen the resilience of the US telecom sector, reduce reliance on foreign supply chains, and address cyber threats, espionage, and strategic competition in critical technologies.
To enhance the security of U.S. telecommunications, the FCC has formed a national security unit. Its mission includes strengthening infrastructure resilience, mitigating cyber threats and espionage risks, reducing reliance on overseas supply chains, and addressing competitive challenges in critical technologies.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has launched a national security unit in response to recent cyber incidents affecting US telecommunications firms.

These incidents, attributed to a group known as Salt Typhoon, involved unauthorised access to sensitive data and communications.

The newly formed unit will be led by Adam Chan, FCC’s national security counsel, and will include representatives from eight different bureaus and offices within the agency. The council’s objectives are to:

  • Reduce reliance on foreign entities in the US telecom and technology supply chains.
  • Address vulnerabilities related to cyber threats, espionage, and surveillance.
  • Support U.S. leadership in critical technologies, including 5G, satellites, quantum computing, IoT, and robotics.

Cybersecurity experts have emphasised the importance of securing digital infrastructure against advanced threats. The telecommunications sector, despite its established cybersecurity measures, continues to face persistent and evolving risks.

Recent reports indicate that Salt Typhoon has continued targeting US telecom networks, with activity observed as recently as February.

The FCC has taken several steps in recent months to enhance industry security, and the formation of this council represents a further effort to strengthen resilience.

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