FCC Blocks Two Video Devices Over Huawei-Linked Chips

The Federal Communications Commission has blocked a wireless video transmitter and a dashboard camera from entering the US market because they contain surveillance-focused chips made by a Huawei subsidiary. The decision matters to households shopping online for cameras and other connected video equipment, especially products imported from unfamiliar manufacturers.

What happened

The FCC rejected the two devices under rules that took effect October 13, according to The Record. The products contain chips from HiSilicon, a Huawei subsidiary included on the agency’s list of companies whose technology is considered a national security concern.

HiSilicon promotes chips intended for video surveillance, including technology capable of detecting human faces. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said video products using surveillance chips from companies on the agency’s restricted list present an unacceptable risk.

This is the first reported device ban under the FCC’s new approach. Previously, a product that was otherwise legal could contain individual components made by a restricted company. The new rules allow the agency to block devices containing smart components from companies on its covered list.

The source does not disclose the manufacturers, model names, prices or retail listings for the two rejected products. It also does not report that either device was previously authorized for sale in the United States, that current owners must stop using one, or that a consumer recall has been issued.

Who is affected

The immediate decision affects the companies seeking permission to bring the wireless transmitter and dashboard camera into the US market. Consumers are more broadly affected because the rules change which connected products can legally enter the country when they contain components from restricted suppliers.

People buying imported dash cams, wireless video transmitters or other inexpensive connected cameras should pay particular attention. A familiar-looking retail listing may not explain which company manufactured the chips inside the device, and the FCC decision does not provide enough information to identify the rejected models by appearance alone.

What to do now

1. Before buying a dash cam or wireless video transmitter, open the product listing and look under Specifications, Technical details or Manufacturer information. Search the page for “HiSilicon” and “Huawei.” CyberSec24 recommends avoiding the product if either name appears and the seller cannot clearly explain its US authorization status.

2. Click the seller’s name and check whether it identifies a real manufacturer, provides a support site and states who is responsible for the product in the United States. Treat missing or vague company information as a reason to choose another device.

3. Ask the manufacturer or seller for the product’s exact model number and FCC identification information before ordering. Do not assume that a listing marked “wireless,” “smart” or “US compatible” confirms FCC approval.

4. If you already own a dash cam or transmitter, open its companion app and device settings, then install any available firmware update. The report does not identify affected models or announce a recall, so do not discard a device solely because it fits the same general category.

5. Watch for a notice from the retailer or manufacturer. If a specific model is later identified or recalled, follow the official instructions rather than relying on social-media claims or messages asking you to download an update from an unfamiliar link.