Understanding Cybersecurity of Mobile Networks Act

H.R. 1709 would direct the Department of Commerce to examine and report on the cybersecurity of mobile service networks. Specifically, the bill would require the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to submit a comprehensive report to Congress within one year of enactment that assesses how well mobile service providers have addressed cybersecurity vulnerabilities identified by researchers, industry experts, and federal agencies. The report would examine how these vulnerabilities could be exploited by adversaries, including hackers and foreign entities, and would assess the prevalence of encryption and authentication methods used in mobile networks.

The bill would require the report to include input from a wide range of stakeholders, including mobile service providers, equipment manufacturers, software developers, academic researchers, and international partners. The report would also examine whether customers consider cybersecurity when choosing mobile services and devices, and what barriers prevent providers from adopting stronger security measures. This bill has already passed the House with strong bipartisan support and is now under review by the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.