Trump Administration Targets Router Security, Raising Constitutional Concerns

The Trump administration, through the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), is implementing a policy requiring conditional approval from the Department of Defense or Department of Homeland Security for the sale of routers manufactured outside the United States. This move, ostensibly aimed at bolstering cybersecurity, has sparked criticism regarding its legality and potential for abuse.

FCC’s “Covered List” and Foreign Router Ban

The FCC announced it would add all foreign-made routers to its “covered list,” effectively banning their sale in the U.S. Unless manufacturers obtain “conditional approval.” This approval process involves application fees and potential political considerations, raising concerns about a potential shake-down of manufacturers under the guise of national security.

Justification and Cybersecurity Concerns

The FCC cites recent cybersecurity incidents involving vulnerabilities in foreign-made routers as justification for the policy. A fact sheet released by the agency points to attacks targeting American civilians through compromised routers. However, critics argue that the administration’s approach misdiagnoses the root causes of cybersecurity failures.

The recent Chinese Salt Typhoon hack, which compromised U.S. Telecom networks, was largely attributed to failures within the broadly deregulated U.S. Telecom sector, specifically the failure to change default admin passwords and subsequent attempts to conceal evidence of intrusion.

Criticism of Brendan Carr’s Policies

FCC Chair Brendan Carr has faced criticism for policies that some argue have weakened U.S. Cybersecurity. These include the deregulation of privacy and security standards for domestic telecoms and hardware makers, and the dismantling of smart home testing programs.

Dismantling of Cybersecurity Programs

The Trump administration has been accused of undermining cybersecurity efforts by gutting numerous government programs, including the Cyber Safety Review Board (CSRB), which was responsible for investigating significant cybersecurity incidents. Despite claims of prioritizing cybersecurity, the administration has simultaneously reduced oversight of domestic telecom companies.

Concerns Over Ulterior Motives

Critics suggest that the administration’s “cybersecurity” initiatives are often driven by ulterior motives, such as personal gain. The handling of TikTok, which ultimately resulted in the app being offloaded to individuals with ties to the president, is cited as an example.

Constitutional Challenges

Democratic lawmakers have criticized FCC Chair Brendan Carr’s threats to revoke broadcasters’ licenses as unconstitutional, particularly in cases where coverage is critical of the administration’s policies. California Governor Gavin Newsom has also condemned Carr’s actions as “flagrantly unconstitutional.”

Brendan Carr was nominated as a commissioner of the FCC in June 2017 by President Donald Trump and assumed the role of chair in January 2025.