When choosing new telecommunications technology for your business, what are the biggest factors in your decision? Is it price? Availability? Or just simply the newest version of the tech you’ve used before? Due to a recent mandate, you may want to consider ‘country of origin’ as a major deciding factor.
On August 13th, 2020 the GSA (General Services Administration) implemented Section 889 of the NDAA (National Defense Administration Act) which prohibits government agencies and companies contracting under the DOD (Department of Defense) from using ‘covered telecommunications services or equipment’ as a major part of their infrastructure.
What are ‘covered telecommunications services or equipment’?
Essentially, it is equipment or services with known ties to the People’s Republic of China. This rule was put into place to prevent cyber-attacks or data leaks to known foreign adversaries. This includes products or services from companies like Huawei Technologies, ZTE Corporation, Hangzhou Hikvision, Digital Technology, Hytera Communications Corporation, Dahua Technology, and any subsidiaries or affiliates.
Who and what does this affect?
The rule itself can be boiled down into two parts. Part A prohibits government agencies from procuring these goods or services and Part B prohibits government agencies from contracting with entities that use the same goods or services. In essence, any company that contracts with government agencies need to comply with this mandate.
What some may not realize is that this extends to business partners as well. For example, let us say that company A has a contract with the DOD but company A uses goods manufactured by company B. Under section 889, company B needs to also comply with the mandate.
Non-compliance with this rule can result in hefty fines or loss of valuable contracts, so it is extremely important to make the right technology decisions.
What can Vodigy do to help?
Whether or not your business is affected by this mandate, it is never a bad idea to research your technology before purchasing. The need for cyber security increases daily and it is important to be as prepared as possible.
At Vodigy Networks, we have the expertise and experience to help in purchasing the right tech for your business and keep your data safe.
Give us a call today and rest easy knowing that your technology and IT infrastructure are in good hands.