Washington, D.C. – TechNet, the national, bipartisan network of innovation economy CEOs and senior executives, today issued the following statement, attributed to Carl Holshouser, SVP, TechNet, on the Federal Trade Commission’s hearing on the secure and safe repair of digital products:
“Instead of holding hearings on implementing policies that threaten consumers’ safety and security, the FTC should work with manufacturers to guarantee that those who are trusted to make repairs are able to do so safely, securely, and correctly. By upending an effective and secure system for consumers to repair products that they rely on for their health, safety, and well-being, including phones, computers, fire alarms, medical devices, and home security systems, the FTC will instigate far-reaching, permanent impacts on technology and cybersecurity.
“The reality is 29 states this year alone decided not to pursue these exact mandates because authorized repair providers, including many local, small, and family-owned businesses, have established relationships with manufacturers and the training and qualifications needed to safely and properly repair digital devices. Allowing unauthorized third parties with access to sensitive diagnostic information, software, tools, and parts would jeopardize the safety and security of consumers’ computers, tablets, and other devices and put them at risk for fraud and data theft.”