The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has initiated an investigation into the potential security risks associated with the use of Russian and Chinese satellite systems by mobile phones and other devices in the United States.
This move comes amid concerns that American handheld devices may be receiving and processing Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals from satellites controlled by foreign adversaries, which could be in violation of FCC rules.
The FCC is seeking clarification from leading handset manufacturers such as Apple, Google, Motorola, Nokia, and Samsung, which collectively dominate over 90% of the U.S. smartphone market.
These companies have been asked to respond to inquiries regarding whether their devices are processing signals from foreign satellites in breach of FCC regulations.
Representative Mike Gallagher, the chair of the House Select China Committee, recently raised concerns with FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel about reports indicating that U.S. cell phones were receiving and processing signals from Chinese and Russian satellites.
He emphasized the importance of FCC enforcement against unauthorized foreign signals, particularly in light of recent events such as Russian interference with GNSS signals in Eastern Europe.
While the FCC had previously expressed concerns about U.S. phones using chips designed for global navigation satellite systems of other countries, the current investigation aims to ensure compliance with FCC rules and identify any potential vulnerabilities in the processing of GNSS signals by American devices.
The outcome of this investigation could have significant implications for the security of mobile devices in the United States and may lead to stricter enforcement measures by the FCC to safeguard against unauthorized access to foreign satellite signals.
