The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is reconstituting its Communications Security, Reliability, and Interoperability Council (CSRIC) with a renewed emphasis on strengthening 5G network security.
CSRIC VII was dissolved in March, but recent high-profile cyber incidents, including the SolarWinds breach, underscore the need to revive the council and continue its vital work to protect communications infrastructure.
Acting FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel stated:
“I am committed to working with our federal partners and the private sector to increase the security and resiliency of our nation’s communications networks. That is why I am refocusing and revitalizing the FCC’s Communications, Security, Reliability, and Interoperability Council for the challenges of today and tomorrow.
The damage from recent supply chain attacks, like the SolarWinds software breach, demonstrates our need for a coordinated, multifaceted, and strategic approach to protecting our networks from all threats.”
CSRIC VIII is scheduled to be established on or before June 30, 2021, and will operate for at least two years. As a federal advisory committee, the council will deliver recommendations to the FCC on measures to ensure the security and reliability of the nation’s communications systems.
Rosenworcel has directed CSRIC VIII to examine vulnerabilities in software and cloud services and to develop practical strategies to mitigate associated risks. The council’s work will focus on improving resilience across networks, addressing supply chain threats, and promoting best practices for secure deployment of emerging technologies, especially 5G.
The FCC is currently accepting nominations for a chairperson to lead CSRIC VIII. The commission aims for this eighth iteration of the council to include a broader and more diverse group of stakeholders than previous versions, drawing expertise from government, industry, academia, and civil society to craft comprehensive, actionable guidance.
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Interested in hearing industry leaders discuss topics like these? Consider attending related events such as 5G-focused expos, IoT and AI conferences, and cybersecurity forums that bring together experts to share insights on securing next-generation networks and digital infrastructure.