FCC Targets Foreign Adversaries with New Network Transparency Rules
Published Date: 6/20/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FCC wants to make sure our communications networks stay safe from foreign threats by asking more companies to share who really controls them. This means anyone with a license to operate communications gear will need to be more open about foreign ties, not just a few. These new rules will start soon and help protect our networks without extra costs for most folks.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
All FCC Licensees Must Disclose Foreign Ties
If your company holds any FCC license, permit, or authorization, the FCC proposes new certification and disclosure rules that would require you to report foreign ownership and related information. The proposal would apply these requirements to every type of license instead of only specific licenses.
Coverage Extends Beyond Ownership to Foreign Control
The FCC proposes to require disclosures not only for foreign ownership but also for any regulated entity that is controlled by, or subject to the jurisdiction or direction of, a foreign adversary. Companies that are controlled by or answer to a foreign adversary would need to certify and disclose that relationship.
More Public Transparency on Foreign Adversary Threats
The proposal would give the FCC and the public a broader, more complete view of foreign adversary threats in the communications sector by filling gaps in existing rules and collecting more information. The agency says this is aimed at protecting the Nation's communications networks.
Agency Says Most People Won't Face Extra Costs
The document states these new rules will start soon and are intended to protect networks without imposing extra costs for most people. The FCC frames the proposal as increasing safety while not creating additional costs for most folks.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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