The HillWhile public discussions of U.S.-China relations focus overwhelmingly on tariffs, threats tied to cyberespionage also are getting increased attention from commentators and government officials. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), for example, is tackling problems associated with Chinese firm Huawei, particularly its equipment’s use in next generation (5G) communications networks. Security concerns, however, go well beyond Huawei and beyond 5G.
RONALD A. CASS , November 30, 2019
Article Introduction
Unknown to most consumers, many of these firms also are either state-owned or state-controlled, with large investments from the Chinese government and corporate leadership intimately connected to the government. In addition to Huawei, the list includes Lenovo, Lexmark, ZTE and others. Just as state power can be directed at limiting information flows that might threaten current leaders, state control also can be used to pressure companies to take actions that facilitate espionage or permit strategic use of equipment to undermine others.