Britain restricts use of Chinese cameras in government buildings |
Britain On November 24, the government ordered departments to stop installing China-linked surveillance cameras in sensitive buildings, citing security risks. “Reuters” writes about this.
The decision was made after considering “possible current and future security risks associated with the installation of visual surveillance systems in a government building.” Duchy of Lancasterflour chancellor Oliver Dowden (Oliver Dowden) he wrote in his written statement to the parliament.
“The review concluded that the threat to the UK, the capability and connectivity of these systems warrants further oversight,” – says Dowden.
The indication refers to cameras covered by China’s security laws. Instructions sent to departments say to disconnect such devices from main computer networks, or completely cancellation consider doing.
A few months ago with them deputy He called for a ban on the sale and use of security cameras developed by Hikvision and Dahua companies. These two Chinese companies are partly controlled by the state. Deputies expressed fear and concern that the products of these companies may be associated with human rights violations from China.
“Hikvision” denied the allegations in a statement to “Reuters” and said that it was for understanding the decision Britain will work with the government.
“Hikvision cannot transfer end-user data to third parties, we do not manage end-user databases, and we do not sell UK cloud storage,” – said the spokesperson of the company.
Dahua’s British office did not respond to emails.
The United States has imposed trade and use restrictions on cameras from Hikvision, Dahua and other Chinese companies.
Most government agencies in Britain use surveillance cameras made by Hikvision or Dahua. This was reported by the “Big Brother Watch” human rights organization in July.
According to the group, a number of government departments, including the ministries of interior and business, have installed Hikvision cameras on the fronts of buildings.
Departments have been directed to stop installing such equipment in sensitive areas, Dowde said in a statement.
“Since security issues are of primary importance in such areas, we must take measures to prevent any security risks,” – is emphasized in the statement.