This morning, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted 3-0 to allow for the retroactive banning of devices and radio components that it had previously approved for import into the United States. This action will apply if the manufacturer is identified as a national security threat.
The primary objective of the decision is to close regulatory loopholes and safeguard US networks from potential risks, particularly those associated with Chinese telecom equipment. This includes the possibility of restricting consumer electronics from companies such as DJI, although there has been no public evidence disclosed by the government indicating that these products pose a security threat.
Effective December 23, new DJI products will automatically be prohibited from entering the US, unless a designated national security agency confirms that they do not present a risk. This prohibition stems from the products being listed under the “Covered List” as part of the Secure and Trusted Communication Networks Act, which prevents the FCC from authorizing their internal radio components for US use. Currently, no US security agency has begun the necessary audits, as confirmed by DJI.
DJI has welcomed an investigation into its products and has urged the US government to initiate the required review or extend the deadline to allow for a thorough and equitable process. Interestingly, eight months prior, DJI believed that a ban would not be retroactive.
Under the new FCC order, manufacturers will not be required to replace existing consumer equipment. Each product will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, providing opportunities for public comment for at least 30 days before any final decisions are made.
The FCC’s directive allows it to target disguised DJI products effectively, should they contain specific radio transmitters or components tied to DJI. Consequently, all new products with radio transmitters will be subject to the ban unless a security agency intervenes prior to the impending deadline.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/report/808104/fcc-order-retroactive-ban-transmitter-national-security