Espionage accusations have turned on the alarms in the West. Less than two months ago, Germany accused China of installing unauthorized communication devices in wind turbines, a case that unleashed a strong controversy. Now, it seems to be repeated in the United States.
Short. The United States has denounced that it has found communication components not documented in some investors and batteries manufactured in China. According to Reuters, American energy officials are reassessing the risk of these devices.
More in depth. As Reuters has collected, some of these solar investors and batteries manufactured in China contained inexplicable communication devices, including cellular radios. These components were not listed in the official documents of the product, which has generated concern among American cybersecurity experts.
The concern. In theory, according to cybersecurity experts and US officials asked by Reuters, these components could be used to avoid Firewalls and remotely access critical equipment, with potential catastrophic consequences for the electricity network. In addition, the situation is complicated if these devices allow remote firmware updates, since they would allow unauthorized changes that go unnoticed in certification reviews, opening the door to potential vulnerabilities.
Precautionary measures. The US Department of Energy has indicated Reuters that certification and documentation protocols are being reviewed to ensure that all components are correctly registered. In addition, work is being done on the implementation of the “Software Materials” list (Bill of Materials or SBOM software) to identify each component integrated into critical devices. This measure seeks not only to prevent the installation of unauthorized components, but also control firmware updates.
A blunt answer. Given these accusations, China has not taken to respond. A spokesman for the Chinese embassy in Washington has told the Communication Agency: “We oppose the generalization of the concept of national security, distorting and defamed China’s infrastructure achievements.”
A relevant history. In 2019, the United States accused Huawei of espionage through its telecommunications teams without presenting conclusive evidence, based only on the proximity of the company with the Chinese government. However, it was later shown that NSA itself had massively spied through telecommunications teams worldwide.
With tweezers. The details are scarce and there are no solid evidence in the report. According to experts consulted by PV Magazine, the lack of concrete details in the Reuters report, such as the number of affected devices or the names of the manufacturers involved, it raises doubts about the veracity of the findings.
More background. So, are we really facing a tangible threat or is it a new episode of the commercial war between the US and China? In a context where China dominates the renewable sector, any accusation against its devices could have much broader implications. Is this an attempt to stop Chinese advance in a strategic sector or a legitimate warning about cybersecurity risks in critical infrastructure?
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WorldOfSoftware | China is improving both its wind turbines that Germany only finds an explanation: spies
