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FCC Authorizes Retroactive Revocation of Previously Approved Devices Over Security Risks

A December 23 validation cutoff could halt Chinese drone imports unless a national security agency affirms they are safe.

Overview

  • The commission voted 3–0 to allow retroactive revocation of prior device authorizations if a later national security determination identifies risk.
  • The move activates a 2024 NDAA audit-and-validation process that can send companies to the FCC Covered List, blocking new authorizations and U.S. imports.
  • DJI faces the near-term deadline with no U.S. agency yet beginning the required audit as the company publicly presses for a review or an extension.
  • The FCC says existing devices will not be seized, with any revocations limited to extraordinary, case-by-case actions after an agency finding, though app or cloud features could suffer if vendor support ends.
  • Other firms are in focus, with Commerce proposing to bar TP-Link sales and reporting indicating Autel could also be affected by FCC enforcement.