Chinese-Made Cranes at US Ports Raise Surveillance and Sabotage Concerns

A recent congressional investigation has revealed that Chinese-made cranes utilized at various US ports are equipped with communication devices, specifically cellular modems, raising apprehensions over potential surveillance or sabotage activities. The probe by the House Committee on Homeland Security and the House Select Committee on China focused on over 200 Chinese-manufactured cranes in use at US ports and related facilities.

Key findings from the investigation indicate that the cellular modems, capable of remote communication, were installed on the cranes without proper documentation in contracts between US ports and the Chinese crane manufacturer ZPMC. The modems were discovered during inspections by US port personnel in China, with no record of their installation.

The House lawmakers express concern that these vulnerabilities could be exploited by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) for espionage, disrupting supply chains, and harming the US economy. Representative Mark Green, the Republican chair of the House Homeland Security Committee, warned of the potential risks, emphasizing the need for swift action to protect critical infrastructure.

ZPMC, the Chinese crane manufacturer, responded on its website, asserting its commitment to providing high-quality products and services while complying with relevant laws and regulations.

Chinese-made cranes account for nearly 80% of those used at US ports, heightening worries about the security of key infrastructure. As cranes can be operated remotely, the presence of cellular modems raises cybersecurity concerns, potentially allowing hackers to collect intelligence or cause disruptions.

In response to these concerns, the Biden administration recently announced a $20 billion investment in new US-made port infrastructure, including cranes deemed to pose lower security risks. The maritime and oil and gas sectors are now undergoing increased scrutiny to enhance security assessments and address potential vulnerabilities associated with remote communication hardware, such as cellular modems.