DJI Ban Looms: Shell Companies Mimic Drones, Raise Trust Concerns
As the December 2024 deadline for a potential DJI ban in the U.S. looms, concerns arise over the emergence of shell companies selling drones with questionable support and legal standing. These entities mimic DJI products to bypass import restrictions, raising reliability and trust issues.
Security researchers have identified several suspected shell companies connected to DJI, including Shenzhen Industries, SkyLink Technologies, and Horizon Innovations. These companies attempt to conceal their ties to DJI as the ban deadline nears. One such entity, Fikaxo, employs tactics like rebranding and using a web of subsidiaries to hide its connections.
DJI itself is creating shell companies to skirt export controls and FCC rules. Multiple entities have surfaced, such as Cogito Tech, WaveGo Tech, SZ Knowact, Skyhigh Tech, and Jovistar Inc. Meanwhile, U.S.-based Anzu Robotics offers an alternative with its NDAA-compliant drones made in Malaysia. However, some U.S. lawmakers remain skeptical about Anzu's licensing deal with DJI, which allows it to sell the Raptor drone based on the DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise.
The proliferation of DJI shell companies raises concerns about support, reliability, and legal standing for consumers. As the December 2024 ban deadline approaches, U.S. lawmakers and consumers should remain vigilant and informed about the origins and connections of drone products.
