Exchanges pull certain Chinese cellphones, other devices over security concerns

The military exchanges have removed Chinese cellphones, personal mobile internet modems and other electronic products made by Huawei and ZTE, based on concerns about the security risks, a Defense Department spokesman said.

“Huawei and ZTE devices may pose an unacceptable risk to the Department’s personnel, information and mission. In light of this information, it was not prudent for the Department’s exchanges to continue selling them to DoD personnel,” DoD spokesman Army Maj. Dave Eastburn said in an email response to questions.

Eastburn couldn’t describe the technical aspects of the potential threats, citing security reasons.

“The Department is evaluating the situation and will determine the necessity of a DoD-wide advisory regarding the purchase or use of these devices,” he said.