The U.S. Commerce Department and FBI are both investigating a little-known telecoms hardware firm founded more than a decade ago by senior Huawei veterans in China, citing possible security risks, sources and documents show.
As Reuters reports, Baicells Technologies, founded in 2014, opened a North American operation the next year in Wisconsin and has since provided telecoms equipment for 700 commercial mobile networks across every U.S. state, according to its website.
The Commerce Department is investigating Baicells on national security grounds, Reuters said, and has sent subpoenas to the company, though it is unclear when the investigation started or what concerns exist about the company or its products. The FBI's interest in Baicells' equipment and origins dates back to at least 2019, though Reuters couldn't determine the specific focus of the FBI's probe.
This could be interesting.
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Grab your coffee. Here's what you need to know today.
Today’s Tech, Channel and MSP News
1. AvePoint acquires Ydentic: Data security, governance and compliance company AvePoint has acquired Ydentic, which specializes in centralized multi-tenant management for MSPs. This strategic acquisition will tuck Ydentic's solution into Elements, AvePoint’s MSP Platform, and enable partners to deliver greater profitability, increased operational efficiency, scalability, and new security-centric recurring revenue streams, the company said.
2. AuditBoard names new CMO: Compliance and risk management software provider AuditBoard has announced the appointment of new CMO April Crichlow. Crichlow brings 20+ years of experience in B2B SaaS marketing, having previously served as CMO of SAP SuccessFactors. In her new role, she will spearhead AuditBoard’s market strategy as it navigates rapid growth and international expansion following the company’s acquisition by PE firm Hg for $3 billion in May 2024.
3. DEX Imaging launches new managed services division: Independent document imaging technology dealer DEX Imaging LLC is launching its own Managed IT and Cybersecurity Division: DEXTEK. For the initial phase of the launch, DEXTEK will service the Cleveland, Ohio, metropolitan area and enter other markets in 2025. This new division will enable DEX Imaging to offer technology solutions specifically to mid-market customers.
4. KeenStack professional services launch: KeenStack, a professional services consulting firm that specializes in ServiceNow platforms, officially launched this week. KeenStack is based in Chandler, Arizona, and offers solutions and services designed to help companies get the most from their ServiceNow platform. The firm works across industries while specializing in the public sector and healthcare.
5. Appfire names new CEO: Appfire has named Matt Dircks - former CEO of BeyondTrust and Appfire board member -- as its new CEO, the company said in a statement. Dircks succeeds Randall Ward, who will assume the position of founder and CEO Emeritus, with a focus on supporting Appfire’s culture, working with founders from acquisitions, and nurturing executive relationships. Dircks has been a core member of the Appfire board for the last 3+ years and brings a strong product management background and over 30 years of experience in CEO and leadership roles
In-Person MSP and Channel Partner Events
- Right of Boom, February 19-21, MGM Grand Resort, Las Vegas, Nevada
- Evergreen Elevate 2025, March 3-4, Archer Hotel, Austin, Texas
- GTIA Communities & Councils Forum, March 10-12, Chicago
- Channel Partners Conference & Expo and MSP Summit, March 10-12, The Venetian, Las Vegas, Nevada
- N-able Empower, week of April 5, Berlin, InterContinental Hotel
- NerdioCon, April 7-9, La Quinta Resort and Club, Palm Springs, California
- Kaseya Connect, April 28-May 1, MGM Grand Resort, Las Vegas, Nevada
