A majority of 5G network operators experienced up to six cyber incidents in the past year. Defenses are especially lacking for ransomware and phishing attacks.
Mobile operators have traditionally relied on proprietary hardware from vendors like Ericsson, Nokia and Huawei to build their networks. And now with 5G comes the push to “virtualize” network functions, replicating key elements in software so they can run on generic hardware, or even in the cloud.
The Government of Canada announced its intention to ban the use of Huawei and ZTE telecommunications equipment and services across the country's 5G and 4G networks.
The Government of Canada has serious concerns about suppliers such as Huawei and ZTE who could be compelled to comply with extrajudicial directions from foreign governments in ways that would conflict with Canadian laws or would be detrimental to Canadian interests.
Rules for industries and governments aim to prevent all-out cyber breakdown.
