Amid growing fears of Russian, Chinese, or Iranian sabotage, the federal government has just issued a sweeping ban on foreign-made robots and power inverters. The move targets emerging technologies that officials warn could be used for surveillance, cyberattacks or even disruptions to the US power grid.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) this week added foreign-produced advanced robotic devices and connected power inverters to its Covered List, preventing new models from receiving the FCC authorization required to be imported, marketed or sold in the United States.
Federal officials warned that connected power inverters could potentially be exploited to gather sensitive data, launch cyberattacks or remotely disrupt parts of the electric grid. Advanced robots could also be vulnerable to surveillance or unauthorized remote control.
The new rules cover mobile robotic devices, including humanoid robots, quadruped “robot dogs”, robotic vacuums, and AI controlled lawn mowers.
The action continues a broader effort by the FCC to tighten restrictions on foreign technology.
