A Guide to NDAA Compliant Security Cameras

What are NDAA-compliant cameras?

NDAA-compliant security cameras are cameras that are not manufactured by any of the named Chinese manufacturers prohibited under Section 889. The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is a series of federal laws that outline the U.S. Department of Defense’s annual budget, expenditures and policies. Section 889 of the 2019 NDAA restricts the use of certain telecommunications and video camera equipment manufactured by specific companies due to national security concerns.

Section 889 generally prohibits procuring or obtaining any equipment, system or service that uses ​“covered telecommunications equipment or services” as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system. This includes extending or renewing a contract to procure or obtain this equipment or services. 

“Covered telecommunications equipment or services” include:

• Telecommunications equipment produced by Huawei Technologies Company or ZTE Corporation (or any of their subsidiaries or affiliates);
• Certain video camera and telecommunications equipment produced by Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company, or Dahua Technology Company (or any of their subsidiaries or affiliates);
• Telecommunications or video camera services provided by such entities or using such equipment.

For reference, you can view official documentation here:

• National Defence Authorization Act, Section 889 (U.S. Congress)
• Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 52.204−25: Prohibition on Contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment

This guide covers NDAA compliant cameras under Section 889, what this means for your organization and how to procure NDAA compliant security cameras and systems. It also identifies the video security companies that provide NDAA compliant cameras under Section 889.

NDAA-compliant security cameras: why does it matter?

For federal agencies and organizations receiving U.S. government funding, NDAA compliance impacts their purchase of video security equipment

The federal government enacted Section 889 to combat growing concerns around national security threats posed by video equipment made by certain Chinese manufacturers. There are several reasons why the federal government took this step. For example, networked devices, such as cameras, can be used as entry points to obtain secured data.

What does NDAA Section 889 mean for my organization?

Section 889 of the NDAA generally prohibits federal agencies from buying and federal grant recipients from using federal funds to purchase certain equipment manufactured by named Chinese manufacturers.

Using federal funds to buy equipment identified in section 889 could jeopardize your compliance with federal law and expose your organization to cybersecurity threats that may negatively affect your business. For example, if your security technology is hacked, you become susceptible to eavesdropping, accessing classified data or disrupting operations that could have far-reaching consequences.

NDAA Section 889 compliant cameras list

Below is a comprehensive list of camera manufacturers and their NDAA status. To ensure that your security cameras comply with Section 889 of the NDAA, it is best to avoid equipment manufactured by Dahua, Hikvision, Huawei, Hytera, ZTE or any of their affiliates.

How to check and replace your cameras

Suppose you are a federal agency or an organization that receives U.S. Government funding. In that case, you should conduct a comprehensive site audit to check if your premises use products subject to the NDAA Section 889 procurement prohibitions. A qualified security integrator can carry out this assessment if you’re unsure how to approach it. 

If your organization receives government funding or contracts with federal agencies, it’s crucial to ensure all installed equipment complies with Section 899. Here’s how:

• Audit your existing security: Identify all cameras, NVRs and other networked devices used in your facility.
• Review manufacturer origins: Check whether any equipment is made by or contains components from restricted manufacturers.
• Consult your integrator: Partner with a qualified security integrator familiar with NDAA requirements for a site-wide audit.
• Replace non-compliant devices: Swap out banned equipment with approved alternatives, such as Pelco, Avigilon or other models.
• Document compliance: Keep detailed records to demonstrate compliance in audits or government funding applications.

Once the audit is completed, you will know if you have any cameras or equipment provided by Chinese manufacturers or companies subject to the prohibitions under Section 889. If such products are installed at your site, it is recommended that you replace them with products not subject to the prohibitions.

Conclusion

For federal government agencies or recipients of federal funding, you should consider replacing cameras manufactured by the companies identified in the NDAA. Contact a trusted video security dealer who will identify what needs to be replaced and the best alternatives.

It’s also helpful to know that security camera manufacturers, such as Pelco and Avigilon, have published information regarding NDAA compliance, including official website statements.