DANGER IN SKIES! US Agencies Sound Alarm on Security Risks Posed by Chinese Drones

The FBI and CISA have warned of the national security implications of using Chinese-made drones in vital U.S. infrastructure. The agencies say these “unmanned aircraft systems” (UAS) are a hazard since Chinese rules require corporations to give authorities user data.

Chinese drones may pose security risks, US agencies warn (Photo: Google)

The Impact of Chinese Laws on Drone Security

The letter warns that Chinese drones in vital infrastructure may accidentally reveal sensitive data to Chinese servers. This may undermine crucial infrastructure and give China’s intelligence agencies intellectual property secrets, according to the FBI and CISA. Key networks are more vulnerable to cyberattacks, according to the letter.

A major element is China’s 2017 National Intelligence Law, which requires corporations to collaborate with governmental intelligence services. The law mandates worldwide user data access. The harsh penalties for non-compliance under the 2021 Data Security Law enhance this. The authorities say these legislative frameworks support China’s Military-Civil Fusion agenda to acquire a strategic edge from superior technology and experience.

Federal authorities have previously highlighted worries about Chinese drones. In 2017, the U.S. Army banned DJI drones for security concerns. U.S. senators in 2022 and Homeland Security officials in 2018 worried about Chinese drones breaking airspace limits. Congress banned Chinese-made drones from federal agencies in 2023 to address these problems.

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Navigating Security and Affordability

Choose “that are secure-by-design and manufactured by U.S. companies” over Chinese drones, say the FBI and CISA. They recognize that American-made drones are seen as lesser quality and more expensive than Chinese ones. The agencies recommend checking the DOD’s “Blue UAS Cleared List” for federally compatible drones.

Due to these security concerns, Rep. Elise Stefanik and Rep. Mike Gallagher have called for a full ban on Chinese-backed drone use in the U.S. to safeguard key infrastructure from surveillance.

As the debate over Chinese-made drones heats up, the narrative highlights the delicate balance between technological advances, national security, and economic interests, leaving stakeholders struggling to secure and robustify U.S. critical infrastructure.

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