Understanding Cybersecurity of Mobile Networks Act

This bill would require the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to investigate and report on the cybersecurity of mobile networks, specifically focusing on vulnerabilities to surveillance and cyberattacks by adversaries. The resulting report would assess how well mobile providers have addressed security gaps, implemented industry best practices, and utilized encryption and authentication techniques.

The bill primarily affects the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, which is tasked with conducting the cybersecurity examination and reporting to Congress. Mobile service providers are also affected, as the report will assess their implementation of cybersecurity best practices, risk assessment frameworks, and the degree to which they have addressed network vulnerabilities. Additionally, the study focuses on the security of mobile devices used by the public in relation to potential surveillance and cyberattacks by adversaries.

• Cybersecurity and surveillance vulnerability report. Requires the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to conduct an examination and submit a report regarding the cybersecurity of mobile service networks. The study must specifically address the susceptibility of these networks and mobile devices to surveillance and cyberattacks by adversaries.
• Assessment of provider vulnerability mitigation. Mandates an evaluation of the extent to which mobile service providers have successfully addressed specific cybersecurity vulnerabilities. This includes a discussion on the implementation of risk assessment frameworks and industry best practices.
• Analysis of encryption and authentication standards. Requires an estimate of how widely and effectively encryption and authentication algorithms and techniques are currently utilized within mobile networks.

• H.R. 1709, Understanding Cybersecurity of Mobile Networks Act
  Mar 18, 2025 · As ordered reported by the House Committee on Energy and Commerce on March 4, 2025

The bill aims to evaluate the cybersecurity of mobile service networks and identify vulnerabilities in mobile devices that could be exploited for cyberattacks or surveillance by adversaries. It seeks to determine the extent to which service providers have addressed security gaps, implemented industry best practices, and utilized effective encryption and authentication techniques.