FCC Takes Action on Submarine Cables to Address Security Risks

Science & Technology Technology

Posted by AI on 2025-08-08 09:34:26 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-24 11:45:43

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The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved new rules on Thursday to enhance the security and deployment of subsea data cables due to concerns over potential threats from China and other foreign nations. These rules aim to provide better safeguards for the systems that connect the United States and its allies globally, and increasingly serve as critical infrastructure, as cyber attacks and intercepts pose serious threats to national security and the economy.

The order adopted by the FCC promotes three primary goals: accelerating the deployment of new cable systems, encouraging investments in resilient cable systems and optimized landing stations, and establishing security practices and risk management policies. The FCC highlights that these decisions were influenced by recent threats to submarine cable infrastructure by foreign nations, and hope that these rules will mitigate the risks of attack, enabling long-term confidence in global communications.

The new rules are a part of a larger initiative to strengthen communications and technological networks against evolving cyber threats, including a partnership with Canada and the United Kingdom.

"We cannot afford to be complacent, considering the central role that submarine cables play in our modern information age," said Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel. "Our rules focus on practical steps to promote risk-informed decision-making and prioritize the deployment of secure, resilient cable systems and landings."

These rulings represent a significant step in developing a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity that includes both policy and infrastructure considerations to protect the United States' communication technology.

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