Security of 5G Networks Must Be Addressed Upfront, Says Pai at Prague Conference

Security issues for 5G need to be addressed “upfront,” while networks are being built, FCC Chairman Ajit Pai said at the Prague 5G Security Conference Thursday. “Making the right choices when deployment is beginning is much easier than trying to correct mistakes once network construction and operation is well underway,” Pai said. “Decisions that impact 5G security need to be made with the long term in mind. Focusing too heavily on short-term considerations could result in choices that are pennywise but pound foolish.” When it launches, 5G will affect the military, critical infrastructure and industry, he said: “The procurement and deployment decisions made now will have a generational impact on our security, economy, and society. … We cannot afford to make risky choices and just hope for the best.” Pai noted Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis convened the conference: “When presidents and prime ministers get personally involved in a communications issue, the message is clear: 5G is a critical subject with major implications for economic growth, national security, and our quality of life.”