US targets Chinese tech in undersea internet infrastructure

The US government is taking steps to prevent Chinese technology companies from accessing and potentially compromising undersea internet cables, which are crucial for global data transmission. The FCC is considering new rules that would block companies using equipment from firms like Huawei and ZTE, already identified as national security threats, from participating in new cable projects connected to the US. Older infrastructure with Chinese involvement could also face increased scrutiny. This move comes amid growing concerns about China's potential to exploit these cables for spying or sabotage, highlighted by past incidents of cable disruptions in areas like the Red Sea and near Taiwan. The FCC aims to strengthen licensing, increase government oversight, and mandate security audits to protect these vital communication links. This is part of a larger US effort to reduce reliance on Chinese technology and secure its communication networks.