FCC National Security Advisory Reinforces Risks Associated With “Covered List” Communications Equipment
On October 14, 2025, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released
National Security Advisory No. 2025-01 (DA-25-927A1), reiterating that certain
communications equipment and services on its “Covered List” have been determined to pose
unacceptable risks to national security. This advisory is issued under multiple FCC dockets,
including WC Docket No. 18-89, ET Docket No. 21-232, and ET Docket No. 24-136.
Covered List Equipment and Security Concerns
- • Communications equipment and services from entities on the FCC’s Covered List are associated with national security concerns.
- • The advisory emphasizes that using, importing, marketing, selling, or providing equipment on the Covered List could threaten U.S. national security.
- • Current Covered List entities include identified manufacturers linked to foreign adversaries and equipment that may enable surveillance or disruption.
- • Stakeholders are urged to review the Covered List on the FCC website and reassess compliance strategies accordingly.
Examples of equipment and services currently included on the FCC’s Covered List include:
- • Huawei Technologies Company – Telecommunications network equipment, core and access infrastructure, and customer premises equipment (CPE).
- • ZTE Corporation – Telecommunications network equipment and related network management services.
- • Hytera Communications Corporation – Professional mobile radio (PMR) systems, land mobile radios, and accessories.
- • Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company – Video surveillance equipment including IP cameras, NVRs/DVRs, and video management systems.
- • Dahua Technology Company – Video surveillance products such as cameras, recorders, and monitoring solutions.
- • China Mobile International (USA) Inc. – International telecommunications services.
- • China Telecom (Americas) Corporation – U.S.-based telecommunications services.
- • China Unicom (Americas) Operations Limited – Telecommunications and network services.
Industry Implications
This advisory serves as a reminder that any equipment or services from suppliers on the Covered List
should be carefully evaluated before procurement or deployment in the U.S. market. Entities currently
relying on such communications products — especially those tied to critical infrastructure, public safety,
or government networks — risk compliance challenges and potential enforcement actions.
Manufacturers and importers should monitor FCC updates, align with national security requirements, and
ensure that product portfolios do not include unauthorized or high-risk equipment flagged by the FCC’s
advisory. Continued alignment with FCC supply chain risk policies is essential for lawful market access.
