The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has fined eight companies $25,000 each for marketing drones that circumvented the US foreign drone ban. The investigation also targets a Chinese testing lab accused of facilitating these dodgy deals.

Among those caught in the crossfire are Cogito Tech, Fixaxo Technology, Lyno Dynamics and Skyhigh Tech — all under scrutiny for their alleged associations with DJI, the tech giant behind popular drones like the Osmo Pocket 3. The FCC's action signals a tough stance on foreign companies trying to exploit US markets.

Interestingly, the Verge reported last year that these 'front companies' were suspected of selling DJI products in disguise. For instance, Xtra Technology’s Xtra Muse camera is so similar to DJI’s Osmo Pocket 3 that one wonders if they’re merely twins separated at birth — or marketing teams.

The FCC's move comes as a surprise, given the complexity of global business and technology. It seems the US regulator is now willing to take action against companies that attempt to bypass its stringent security measures, even if it means cracking down on tech giants like DJI.

But here’s the kicker: if these fines and disqualifications stick, DJI may no longer be able to bring its latest models into the US market. The Osmo Pocket 4 Pro, which managed to sneak through just before the ban, is now causing headaches for both the company and the regulators.