Huawei opens cyber security evaluation centre in the UK

Huawei will use the centre to test the ability of its hardware and software to withstand cyber threats

Chinese telecommunications equipment manufacturer Huawei has opened a new Cyber Security Evaluation Centre (CSEC) in the UK. It will use the centre to test the ability of its hardware and software to withstand the latest cyber security threats.

With today's telecommunications networks becoming increasingly integrated with the desktop, they are more vulnerable to security threats. Mobile devices often now contain important corporate and personal data, and are also suffering increasing levels of attack from cyber criminals.

Huawei hopes that its CSEC will be part of a cyber security assurance system that will protect equipment and network operations, based on industry best practices and international standards.

"The globalisation of the telecoms industry means it faces a growing range of cyber security threats. CESG [the information assurance arm of GCHQ] will work with Huawei to ensure our products meet UK government security standards," said a spokesperson from Huawei.

Earlier this year Huawei was one of the companies affected when India blocked imports of Chinese telecommunications equipment, citing security concerns. The ban was eventually lifted when Huawei complied with new regulations.

The company was also prevented from bidding for a multi-billion dollar Sprint Nextel contract because of US government security concerns, according to the Wall Street Journal.