The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is moving to reestablish a new version of its Communications Security, Reliability, and Interoperability Council (CSRIC) advisory committee to take a look at how artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies can boost communications network security.
The agency’s CSRIC and predecessor panels began in the early 1990s, and since then have advised the FCC on a range of security-related issues including communications and infrastructure reliability, advancements in the 911 services, emergency alerts, national security and emergency preparedness communications services, and 5G wireless service routing protocols, among many others.
The ninth iteration of CSRIC, said FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel, will have a “primary focus to include how artificial intelligence and machine learning can enhance the security, reliability, and integrity of communications networks in a nondiscriminatory, transparent, and socially responsible manner.”
The FCC said on Dec. 20 that Rosenworcel “also plans to task the next CSRIC with addressing forward-looking issues including the security and reliability risks unique to emerging 6G networks and the reliability of Next Generation 911 networks.”
“The FCC is continuing our work with our federal partners and the private sector to bolster the security and resiliency of the nation’s communications networks and I am pleased that CISA has agreed to again co-chair the Communications, Security, Reliability, and Interoperability Council,” Rosenworcel said.
“CSRIC is one of our key venues for tackling these complex issues, which is why I am once again re-establishing CSRIC and charging it with developing plans to address the communications security challenges of tomorrow, setting a path for a more secure and innovative future,” she said.
The ninth iteration of the panel – which will have a two-year term – is expected to be formed by March of this year, and to have its first meeting in June. The previous iteration of the panel finished its work last year.
The FCC is in the process of soliciting members to join the latest iteration of the panel. The agency said Rosenworcel “will again look to include in the Council’s membership to a broad variety of stakeholders, including representation from the FCC’s Federal government partners with similar interests.”
