A ban on hikvision in the US is mounting

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U.S. Pursues Ban on Chinese Surveillance Cameras Amid National Security Concerns

What if your security system is the weak link in your safety plan? Recent investigations have revealed that popular surveillance cameras from Chinese brands, such as Hikvision and Dahua, may be doing more harm than good.

U.S. lawmakers are ramping up efforts to ban surveillance equipment from Chinese manufacturers with known ties to the Chinese government. Congress is proposing a new measure that would block the FCC from approving equipment from companies considered a threat to national security, including Hikvision and Dahua.

Why the U.S. Government Is Taking Action

The House has already passed legislation to restrict equipment approvals for Chinese telecommunications companies. The Senate is now considering a version of that bill, which would eliminate future sales and reduce the supply of surveillance products from flagged vendors.

According to the Security Industry Association, if passed, this measure would force agencies like the FCC to halt certifications for new devices from these companies.

The National Security Risk Behind Hikvision

Hikvision, Dahua, and similar firms are considered high-risk due to direct ties to the Chinese Communist Party. Chinese law mandates that all organizations and citizens support intelligence efforts upon request, making it virtually impossible for these companies to refuse data access to the Chinese government.

Hikvision is also majority-owned by a Chinese state-run company, and its chairman sits on China’s National People’s Congress. These links raise serious concerns about the potential misuse of surveillance technology on U.S. soil.

Technical concerns further validate the government’s position. Hikvision cameras have a history of critical cybersecurity flaws. In 2017, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued an alert regarding a backdoor vulnerability. While patched, similar weaknesses have since re-emerged.

Real-World Risks: When Surveillance Becomes a Liability

In 2021, a cybersecurity audit of a U.S.-based commercial property uncovered a shocking vulnerability. Hackers had exploited a flaw in a Hikvision camera system to gain unauthorized access, not only to the video feed but also to the company’s broader network, including employee and customer records. The breach wasn’t detected until after the client data had been compromised.

This incident isn’t isolated. According to a Forbes report, Hikvision cameras were discovered to be susceptible to remote hijacking without a password. The vulnerability earned a 9.8/10 score on the Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS), highlighting the gravity of the risk.

What Should You Do If You Have Hikvision Cameras?

With a potential nationwide ban on the horizon, now is the time to act. If your surveillance system includes Hikvision, Dahua, or other Chinese-made brands, we recommend proactive replacement to ensure your property remains secure and compliant with relevant regulations.

At First Response Security, we provide modern, reliable alternatives backed by professional installation, local expertise, and 24/7 in-house monitoring. Our security solutions include:

  • Smart surveillance systems
  • Intrusion detection
  • Fire and life safety systems
  • Access control
  • Home and business automation

We’re based in Beaverton, Oregon, and committed to providing our clients with advanced, reliable technology, not systems that pose unnecessary risks. Our team is trained to assess and upgrade vulnerable systems while delivering the peace of mind you deserve.

Don’t wait for the ban to take effect. Contact First Response Security for a free security upgrade consultation now. All services provided are in-house, meaning First Response Security is the only local security service to provide comprehensive services from top to bottom for every piece of equipment we use, from installing and monitoring to responding to threats and alarms, we handle it all.