FCC Implements New Cybersecurity Rules After Salt Typhoon Telecom Hacks

Outgoing FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel emphasizes the need for stronger telecom security as Chinese-linked breach exposes widespread vulnerabilities.

The Salt Typhoon hacking campaign, linked to China, infiltrated nine U.S. telecom companies, compromising private communications and law enforcement wiretap systems.
The FCC has enacted new rules requiring telecom providers to implement cybersecurity risk management plans and certify their compliance annually.
FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel, stepping down this week, described the breach as the worst telecom hack in U.S. history and a wake-up call for stronger regulations.
Republicans, including incoming FCC Chair Brendan Carr, have expressed opposition to Rosenworcel’s regulatory measures, raising concerns about potential rollbacks under the new leadership.
The breach has prompted broader security actions, including a proposed ban on Chinese telecom equipment and routers linked to potential national security threats.