Security News > 2020 > December > DHS Details Risks of Using Chinese Data Services, Equipment
In an advisory this week, the Department of Homeland Security warned American organizations of the risks posed by using data services and equipment from firms that have ties to the People's Republic of China.
"The PRC presents a grave threat to the data security of the U.S. government and U.S. businesses. It has both the intent and ability to covertly access data directly through entities under the influence or jurisdiction of PRC laws," the DHS says.
In addition to detailing the various data collection practices of the Chinese government, and providing an overview of the applicable laws recently passed in the country, the advisory offers extensive details on the risks faced by companies partnering with China.
Chinese firms operating data centers, either in the country or abroad, are required to share data with the government upon request, even if the sharing of data is illegal under the jurisdiction in which firms operate.
Even data centers built using Chinese equipment are at risk, due to the backdoors equipment manufacturers are required to install, by law.