H.R.1709 - Understanding Cybersecurity of Mobile Networks Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 1709, the Understanding Cybersecurity of Mobile Networks Act, directs the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to submit a report to Congress. This report will examine the cybersecurity of mobile service networks and their vulnerability to cyberattacks and surveillance.
The report must include assessments of how mobile service providers address cybersecurity vulnerabilities, customer considerations regarding cybersecurity, and the prevalence of encryption and authentication techniques. It also requires discussion of barriers to adopting better security measures and the usage of surveillance technologies by adversaries.
The Assistant Secretary must consult with various federal agencies, researchers, and industry stakeholders in preparing the report, which will be produced in unclassified form but may contain a classified annex.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill will be a comprehensive report on the cybersecurity landscape of mobile networks in the US. This report will inform Congress about the current state of mobile network security and potential vulnerabilities.
It will also highlight areas where improvements are needed and provide a basis for future legislation or regulatory action. The exclusion of 5G protocols and networks from the report's scope suggests a focus on existing, potentially more vulnerable, mobile technologies.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced Cybersecurity Awareness: The report will raise awareness among policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the public about the importance of mobile network security.
- Informed Policy Decisions: The findings will provide Congress with the information needed to make informed decisions about cybersecurity regulations and investments.
- Improved Security Practices: The report's recommendations could lead to the adoption of better security practices by mobile service providers and device manufacturers.
- Protection Against Cyber Threats: By identifying vulnerabilities and promoting stronger security measures, the bill could help protect Americans from cyberattacks and surveillance.
- Increased Transparency: The reporting requirements promote transparency in the mobile service industry regarding cybersecurity practices.
Potential Disadvantages
- Limited Scope: The exclusion of 5G networks from the report's scope could be a significant drawback, as 5G becomes increasingly prevalent.
- Potential for Delay: The one-year deadline for the report's submission may not be sufficient for a comprehensive analysis, potentially leading to a rushed or incomplete assessment.
- Redaction of Information: Redacting potentially exploitable unclassified information could limit the report's usefulness to the public and some stakeholders.
- Industry Influence: Consultation with mobile service providers could lead to biased or self-serving recommendations in the report.
- Lack of Enforcement Mechanism: The bill itself does not mandate any specific actions based on the report's findings, potentially limiting its impact.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the US Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce and provide for the common defense. Cybersecurity falls under the umbrella of national security and economic stability, both of which are legitimate concerns for congressional action.
The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or freedoms. The reporting requirements are reasonable and do not unduly burden any particular industry or group.
However, potential future legislation stemming from this report would need to be carefully scrutinized to ensure compliance with constitutional principles, especially regarding privacy and freedom of speech.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).