Why Businesses Are Replacing Hikvision With NDAA-Compliant CCTV
Securing your business used to be as simple as pointing a camera at the door and recording the footage, but times have changed, and this is no longer the case. As technology advances, the physical security of your building is now deeply intertwined with your digital security. Connecting a camera to the internet brings incredible convenience, but it also opens the door to significant cybersecurity risks.
A massive shift is currently taking place across the commercial security landscape with increased scrutiny regarding Chinese-manufactured CCTV systems. While these brands have dominated the security market for years, this is all about to change as governments and private organisations highlight the potential vulnerabilities hiding inside these surveillance networks.
There has been a growing awareness of cybersecurity risks in the Chinese market, and this is becoming more prominent with new legislation across the pond. NDAA compliance is originally an American legislation, but it is having ripple effects across the market and is now impacting UK businesses.
Under these regulations, businesses are being pushed to change their entire security systems so they no longer rely on Chinese manufacturers. This can seem like a complicated process, which is why we have created this post.
As a leading security installer, Lincs Alarms is always up to date with the current legislation and regulations affecting our work.
We are here to guide you through this latest transition. In this post, we will be exploring what NDAA compliance means, why certain brands are facing heavy restrictions, and how you can make the smartest choice for NDAA-compliant CCTV.
What Is NDAA Compliance?
The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is a crucial piece of United States legislation which is impacting how CCTV is used across the world. Specifically, Section 889 of this act is the main contributor to these changes.
This section prohibits US government agencies, their contractors, and grant recipients from using telecommunications and video surveillance equipment from specific Chinese manufacturers. The ban focuses heavily on preventing these manufacturers from being used in government and critical infrastructure projects due to national security concerns.
The core brands explicitly restricted under this law include:
- Hikvision
- Dahua
- Huawei
- ZTE
- Hytera
Crucially, NDAA compliance is not just about the badge on the outside of the camera. The legislation also applies to the internal components and chipsets. If a camera from a different brand uses a system-on-a-chip (SoC) manufactured by Huawei (such as HiSilicon), that camera is also non-compliant.
While this legislation has begun in the United States, you do not need to be a government contractor to care about these regulations.
Choosing compliant equipment provides massive benefits for local businesses, schools, and homeowners alike. Selecting NDAA-compliant CCTV is essential for UK businesses aiming to future-proof their security, maintain eligibility for government contracts and ensure compliance with international legal and security standards.
When considering your next CCTV installation, you need to not only consider what brand of CCTV cameras you are using, but it is also vital to know exactly what is operating under the hood of your hardware to remain compliant.
Why Are Hikvision and Dahua Under Scrutiny?
Hikvision and Dahua are two of the largest surveillance manufacturers in the world. However, international security agencies have raised severe cybersecurity concerns regarding their equipment. These are specific companies and named Chinese manufacturers that are blacklisted under NDAA regulations.
The primary concerns around these brands are regarding data privacy and remote access vulnerabilities. Security researchers have repeatedly discovered backdoors and firmware flaws that could theoretically allow unauthorised users to view live camera feeds or access the wider corporate network.
The use of hardware from these specific Chinese companies poses cybersecurity threats and can lead to theft of sensitive data. Furthermore, because these companies are bound by Chinese national intelligence laws, there is a fear that they could share data with the Chinese state.
Governments around the world are taking decisive action to combat these risks in the form of NDAA compliance. The US, Australia, Canada, and India have all taken steps to block or restrict these brands.
In the UK, the government has instructed sensitive sites and specific departments to cease using visual surveillance systems produced by companies subject to China’s National Intelligence Law. This has resulted in existing equipment being removed from these locations and updates being made to CCTV systems in operation across the UK.
Even businesses that are not legally required to follow NDAA standards, such as those outside the political sphere, are choosing to replace their Chinese security systems with NDAA-compliant CCTV to reduce future risk.
Many businesses across the UK recognise that making these changes, even if the legislation does not affect them yet, demonstrates a commitment to robust cybersecurity and is beneficial for the protection of their data.
Why NDAA Compliance Matters for UK Businesses
It is not just government contractors who need to care about these regulations, as all UK businesses should be aware of the changes taking place in the security market.
NDAA-compliant CCTV is legally required for businesses connected to government organisations or involved in government projects, but this does not mean you are exempt from the changes.
Those in political or governmental roles will need to invest in new, NDAA-compliant CCTV to avoid serious implications and severe penalties, outlined in Section 889, but other companies should follow suit to mitigate cybersecurity risks.
Choosing NDAA-compliant CCTV offers several key benefits to UK businesses, including:
Protecting Sensitive Data
While internet-connected CCTV systems are brilliant for remote monitoring, as we explore in our post Why Commercial Buildings Should Use Monitored Security, these systems do come with vulnerabilities.
By using the internet, hackers can break into your IT infrastructure and have access to sensitive data, including live feeds of your premises. These vulnerabilities are a particular concern with Chinese manufacturers, so replacing these with NDAA-compliant CCTV you are actively combating this risk.
NDAA-compliant CCTV cameras are vetted against some of the highest cybersecurity standards in the world, meaning they offer enhanced security and are specifically designed to reduce the risk of data breaches.
Future-Proofing Security Investments
Regulations and procurement standards are evolving rapidly across the world, and failing to act now can mean you will fall behind.
As awareness grows, UK tenders and infrastructure projects are increasingly choosing NDAA-compliant CCTV systems.
If you plan to bid for public sector contracts or simply want to ensure your equipment will not need premature replacement due to changing UK regulations, investing in new, NDAA- compliant commercial security systems makes sense financially.
Reputation & Client Trust
If your business handles sensitive information, you need higher security standards. Demonstrating a proactive commitment to cybersecurity by replacing your systems with NDAA-compliant CCTV builds incredible trust with your clients.
Using secure, compliant surveillance equipment shows that you take their privacy and safety seriously.
Industries Most Affected by NDAA Requirements
While the initial focus was on government buildings, the demand for compliant hardware has expanded across multiple sectors. Industries handling sensitive data, vulnerable people, or vital supply chains are leading the charge.
The industries most affected include:
- Government contractors
- Schools and universities
- Healthcare providers
- Warehouses and logistics
- Critical infrastructure, including water facilities
- Manufacturing facilities
- Corporate offices
For these sectors, especially critical infrastructure like water facilities, using NDAA-compliant CCTV products is essential to meet regulatory requirements and ensure operational security.
Even private businesses are proactively replacing non-compliant systems due to insurance requirements, strict procurement policies or general cybersecurity concerns.
If you are looking to replace your CCTV systems across your business, you should work with a certified and registered engineer like Lincs Alarms. To learn more, see our post Why Use An SSAIB Certified Installer?
What Makes NDAA Compliant Security Cameras and CCTV Systems?
Identifying a compliant system requires more than just a look at the box. A truly NDAA-compliant system must meet several strict criteria:
- No banned manufacturers: The equipment cannot be made by Hikvision, Dahua, Huawei, ZTE, or Hytera.
- No restricted chipsets or components: Internal processors and components must also come from approved manufacturers
- Transparent supply chain: The manufacturer must clearly disclose where their parts are sourced and assembled
- Secure firmware and update policies: The brand must demonstrate a commitment to patching vulnerabilities and securing cloud servers.
Many brands are now proudly marketing their NDAA-compliant ranges. Some of the most trusted names in the industry include Hanwha Vision, Axis Communications, Avigilon and Bosch. Uniview also offers specific compliant ranges, which is what we supply at Lincs Alarms.
It is important to note that compliance varies by product line, so working with a knowledgeable installer is essential to ensure you remain compliant and legally sound.
Signs Your Current CCTV System May Not Be Compliant
Are you wondering if your current setup meets these rigorous standards? Here is a quick checklist to help you identify potential non-compliance:
- Uses Hikvision or Dahua hardware: If you see these logos on your cameras or network video recorders (NVRs), the system is not compliant.
- White-labelled or rebranded systems with unclear origins: Many cheaper systems are simply Hikvision or Dahua products rebranded with a different logo.
- Unknown chipsets and components: The camera might be from an approved brand, but if it relies on a banned chipset, it falls short.
- No recent firmware support: If your manufacturer no longer provides security updates, your network is highly vulnerable.
- Overseas cloud routing: Remote access that routes your video feed through questionable overseas cloud servers is a major red flag.
Many rebranded systems may still use restricted components, making it incredibly difficult for the average business owner to verify compliance without professional help.
How Lincs Alarms Helps Businesses Upgrade to Secure, NDAA-Compliant CCTV
Navigating the complexities of commercial security does not have to be a headache. Lincs Alarms provides tailored, end-to-end security solutions across Lincolnshire and the surrounding areas to ensure your premises are fully protected. We offer commercial CCTV, alarm systems and access control.
We start by conducting comprehensive site surveys and security audits to evaluate your current setup. If you are relying on non-compliant equipment, we can manage the complete replacement of those systems. We exclusively install trusted, NDAA-compliant alternatives that offer crystal-clear image quality and bulletproof cybersecurity.
Beyond installation, we also provide ongoing maintenance and support to keep your firmware updated and your cameras functioning.
Conclusion
NDAA compliance is rapidly becoming a fundamental consideration across the world. While this initially began as a requirement for US government contractors, businesses across the world, including the UK, are now looking to update their security systems.
Cybersecurity is now an inseparable part of physical security, and NDAA-compliant CCTV is the future-proof solution. These systems offer enhanced security, helping protect sensitive information and ensuring your organisation meets strict legal and industry standards.
Businesses investing in CCTV today must think long-term. By choosing compliant, trusted equipment, you drastically reduce future risks, prevent expensive forced upgrades and keep your corporate network safe from bad actors.
Lincs Alarms is here to offer site assessments, CCTV upgrades and ongoing servicing and maintenance to ensure your business remains compliant and secure.
Contact Us Today
To learn more about our services or to request a quote, please contact the team today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NDAA compliance legally required in the UK?
No, the NDAA is a US law. However, many UK organisations and government contractors are increasingly adopting these compliant systems proactively due to valid cybersecurity concerns and tightening procurement standards.
Are Hikvision and Dahua cameras banned in the UK?
They are not universally banned for private use. However, strict restrictions have been introduced for sensitive government sites, and a vast number of private organisations are voluntarily moving away from these systems to protect their data.
How can I check if my CCTV system is NDAA-compliant?
A professional security installer can comprehensively review your cameras, recorders, firmware, and internal hardware components to determine whether your current system meets NDAA-related standards. Contact Lincs Alarms to arrange a thorough security audit of your premises.
