In recent times there seems to be a lot of scrutiny on Chinese companies such as Huawei and ZTE, where US lawmakers have warned companies not to use their products. In fact earlier this year Huawei’s plans to make a big entrance into the US was dashed when major US carriers reportedly pulled out of the deal with them.
Unfortunately it looks like the woes of Huawei and ZTE aren’t quite over because in a report from CNN, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) has warned Democrats running in November’s midterms not to use devices made by either company. This is according to a warning memo sent out by Bob Lord, the DNC’s chief security officer.
According to Lord, “It’s very important that party and campaign workers not use ZTE or Huawei devices, even if the price is low or free. Please make sure that you are not using or purchasing ZTE or Huawei devices anywhere within your staff – for personal or work-related use.” It was not stated why that is, but in the past both companies have been accused of spying on behalf of China’s government.
Recently ZTE narrowly escaped an export ban imposed by the US which would have potentially forced them to shut down, and while they might have gotten out of there by the skin of their teeth, this warning is probably not doing them any favors. Huawei has also recently surpassed Apple to become the world’s second largest smartphone seller, although with this warning (and the implications behind it) it remains to be seen if they can hold onto that position.