The following statement is attributed to Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®, regarding the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) June meeting, which included a vote on CTA’s petition to expand marketing opportunities for innovative 5G technologies and a vote to expand the FCC’s role in device security.  

“We are thrilled the FCC voted on CTA’s request to revise its decades-old rules, to now offer companies more opportunities to import and sell highly sought-after devices directly to consumers. As Americans rapidly shifted to working, learning and receiving medical care online during the pandemic, the need for 5G and other next-generation devices became even more important. CTA members are racing to meet the consumer demand for these connected devices, and these new rules will allow companies to get essential products into consumers’ hands faster.”

“But we are concerned about the FCC’s proposals to insert itself into regulating device security, which is contrary to the FCC's legal authority and could have many unintended consequences. Our nation’s technology industry works closely with policymakers to ensure these devices are secure against emerging threats. We urge the FCC to take more time to evaluate its role in security of devices and ensure a process that best promotes innovation and protects consumers.”

View CTA’s petition to the FCC to revise equipment authorization rules here. View CTA’s white paper on policy recommendations for securing IOT devices here.