The Federal Communications Commission has ordered a ban on the import of new consumer routers manufactured overseas, citing cybersecurity risks. The order does not affect existing routers but grants exceptions for new devices approved by military or security departments.

According to Reuters, China commands around 60% of the market for consumer routers, with malicious hackers exploiting these devices to attack U.S. households and businesses. Various hacking groups, including Salt Typhoon and Flax Typhoon, have targeted routers to disrupt networks and enable cybercrime.

The FCC's decision comes despite a lack of evidence showing that U.S.-made routers are more secure than foreign-made ones. The ban aims to protect critical infrastructure and supply chains from potential threats, such as those posed by China-backed hacking groups.

Meanwhile, the FCC has scrapped cybersecurity rules for telecom operators. This move raises questions about the agency's priorities in a digital age where online security is paramount.