FBI, DHS Warn U.S. Firms of Cyber Threats from Chinese Drones
A report from the FBI and U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) lays out the vulnerabilities and consequences of leaving the aircraft unchecked.
DJI was not named in the report, but the company’s drones, such as this Phantom, are among those targeted by U.S. bans. [Courtesy: Emiliano Arano/Pexels]
Key Takeaways:
The FBI and CISA released guidance warning that Chinese-manufactured drones, including those from market leader DJI, pose significant cybersecurity threats to U.S. critical infrastructure.
The core concern stems from Chinese laws that compel companies to share data with the PRC government, potentially exposing sensitive information, intellectual property, and infrastructure vulnerabilities.
To mitigate these risks, the agencies recommend U.S. firms use "secure-by-design" drones, consult the DoD's "Blue UAS Cleared List," and implement robust cybersecurity measures.
This guidance is part of a broader U.S. effort to diminish Chinese drone dominance, despite concerns that bans could lead to higher costs and less advanced options for American users.
Another week, another push by the U.S. government to diminish the dominance of Chinese drones.
The FBI and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) this week released a report highlighting the threats posed by Chinese manufacturers of uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS)—including DJI, which accounts for an estimated 7 in 10 global sales of consumer drones.
CREATE A FREE ACCOUNT
Sign up to keep reading
Create a free account to continue. Already a member? Sign in below.
Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.
