ChinaTalk Huawei May, But How?: China's Role in Global IT Infrastructure
May 8, 2019
Nick Weaver, a researcher at the International Computer Science Institute and UC Berkeley lecturer, dives into the heated debate over Huawei's role in global tech supply chains. He clarifies the complex concerns surrounding cybersecurity and national security in the era of 5G. The conversation explores whether fears about Chinese tech influence are justified or exaggerated. Weaver also discusses the implications of government surveillance on trust in tech companies and the geopolitical stakes involved in choosing telecom suppliers like Huawei.
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Telecom Networks' Vulnerability
- Telecom networks are special because they are designed with wiretapping as a built-in feature for law enforcement.
- This design makes them inherently vulnerable to sabotage by nation-state attackers.
History of Wiretapping in Telecoms
- Jordan Schneider asks about the history of building wiretapping into telecom networks.
- Nick Weaver admits he wasn't around for the initial debates but notes the debate continues, with security experts now more vocal about its dangers.
U.S. and Chinese Government Actions
- Nick Weaver compares potential actions of the Chinese government with past actions of the U.S. government, like the NSA sabotaging equipment.
- He argues that any country subject to Chinese spying should worry about similar sabotage.