New Zealand Bars Chinese Firm’s 5G Rollout Due to Security Concerns

New Zealand Bars Chinese Firm’s 5G Rollout Due to Security Concerns

Huawei, the world’s biggest producer of telecoms equipment, has faced pushback from governments due to concerns that its technology could be used for unsavory purposes such as spying.

Due to concerns about national security, New Zealand has blocked a proposal to use telecoms equipment made by the Chinese company Huawei.

Several countries are currently building 5G networks. Huawei, the world’s biggest producer of telecoms equipment, has faced pushback from governments due to concerns that its technology could be used for unsavory purposes such as spying.

Spark New Zealand, a telecoms firm, had planned to use Huawei equipment when building its 5G network. According to Sparks, New Zealand Government Communications Security Bureau (GCSB) told the company that their proposal “would, if implemented, raise significant national security risks.”

Intelligence Services minister Andrew Little said Spark New Zealand could work with the agency to reduce the risks to national security.

"As the GCSB has noted, this is an ongoing process. We will actively address any concerns and work together to find a way forward," Huawei said.

The block follows a decision by Australia to block Huawei and Chinese firm ZTE from providing 5G technology for its wireless networks due to national security concerns. Concerns have also been raised by the United States, United Kingdom, German, Japan and Korea.

Tom Uren, visiting fellow in the International Cyber Policy Centre at Australia's Strategic Policy Institute, said the Chinese government had "clearly demonstrated intent over many years to steal information".

Concerns about Chinese companies like Huawei have increased due to new laws introduced last year requiring Chinese organizations to assist in national intelligence efforts. The laws mean the Chinese government can compel people and potentially companies to work with them, according to Uren.

"It's hard to argue that [companies like Huawei and ZTE] don't represent an elevated risk," Uren said.

About the Author

Jessica Davis is the Associate Content Editor for 1105 Media.

Featured

  • Using Modern Technology

    Using Modern Technology

    Workplace violence is a serious and growing challenge for many organizations — including those in the healthcare industry. Read Now

  • The Core Value Proposition

    The Core Value Proposition

    Machine and deep learning algorithms are everywhere in our lives. Masquerading as AI, they are only in their infancy. Have a conversation with a ChatGPT chatbot, and it becomes clear just how far we have come in a short time and how far we have to go. Read Now

  • Progressing in Capabilities

    Progressing in Capabilities

    Hazardous areas within industries like oil and gas, manufacturing, agriculture and the like, have long-sought reliable video surveillance cameras and equipment that can operate safely in these harsh and unpredictable environments. Read Now

  • A Comprehensive Nationwide Solution

    A Comprehensive Nationwide Solution

    Across the United States, manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, truck yards, parking lots and car dealerships all have a common concern. They are targets for catalytic converters. In nearly every region, cases of catalytic converter thefts have skyrocketed. Read Now

Featured Cybersecurity

New Products

  • SecureAuth

    SecureAuth

    The acceleration of digital transformation initiatives as a result of COVID-19 has created a lasting impact on how businesses empower their workforce and engage customers. 3

  • Kangaroo Home Security System

    Kangaroo Home Security System

    Kangaroo is the affordable, easy-to-install home security system designed for anyone who wants an added layer of peace of mind and protection. It has several products, ranging from the fan-favorite Doorbell Camera + Chime, to the more comprehensive Front Door Security Kit with Professional Monitoring. Regardless of the level of desired security, Kangaroo’s designed to move with consumers - wherever that next chapter may be. Motion sensors, keypads and additional features can be part of the package to any Kangaroo system in place, anytime. Additionally, Kangaroo offers scalable protection plans with a variety of benefits ranging from 24/7 professional monitoring to expanded cloud storage, coverage for damage and theft. 3

  • ComNet CNGE6FX2TX4PoE

    The ComNet cost-efficient CNGE6FX2TX4PoE is a six-port switch that offers four Gbps TX ports that support the IEEE802.3at standard and provide up to 30 watts of PoE to PDs. It also has a dedicated FX/TX combination port as well as a single FX SFP to act as an additional port or an uplink port, giving the user additional options in managing network traffic. The CNGE6FX2TX4PoE is designed for use in unconditioned environments and typically used in perimeter surveillance. 3