Why Has Canada Banned Hikvision, What Does It Mean for the Security Industry in 2026?

<p>The news of <strong>banned Hikvision</strong> equipment has created a ripple of concern among business owners across Canada. For years, Hikvision cameras have been a familiar staple in offices, retail spaces, and warehouses, serving as a practical and affordable surveillance option. However, the Canadian government’s recent order to cease Hikvision operations due to national security concerns has changed the landscape overnight.</p>

<p>Following similar restrictions in the United States, this decision has raised urgent questions across the security industry. Naturally, facility managers are now asking: What does the <strong>banned Hikvision</strong> status actually mean for my private business? Do existing systems need to be ripped out immediately?</p>

<p>The important thing to know is this: there is no need to panic. While the ban strictly targets government procurement and future operations, it signals a critical shift in how we must evaluate surveillance technology. In this blog, we’ll break down the regulations, explain who is truly affected, and show you how to move forward with secure, NDAA-compliant alternatives without rushing into unnecessary costs.</p>

Hikvision is a Chinese video surveillance manufacturer that is partly owned by the Chinese state. After a federal national security review, the Canadian government determined that Hikvision’s continued operations in Canada posed an unacceptable risk. As a result, the company was ordered to cease operations in the Canadian market.

The decision was announced on June 27, 2025, by Canada’s Industry Minister, Mélanie Joly, who stated that Hikvision products could be injurious to Canada’s national security. Following this determination, the federal government moved to prohibit the purchase and use of Hikvision equipment across all government departments, agencies, and Crown corporations. Existing Hikvision devices were also removed from government facilities.

It’s important to be clear about the scope of this decision. The ban is directed at government use and public-sector procurement. It does not require private businesses to immediately shut down or remove their existing Hikvision systems. However, the government has strongly discouraged continued use and has effectively closed the door on future purchases, expansions, or long-term reliance on Hikvision technology in Canada.

This move reflects a broader shift in how surveillance equipment is being evaluated, with increased emphasis on cybersecurity, supply chain transparency, and national security. For businesses, the ban serves less as an emergency order and more as a clear signal that planning for compliant, future-proof alternatives is now the responsible path forward.

You might be wondering that you might have to replace the whole security infrastructure now after hearing the hikvision banning news .The short answer is no, and there’s no need to panic. While the word “ban” can sound disruptive, businesses don’t have to replace everything at once.

There are several steps you can take to stay compliant and secure without overhauling your entire system:

• Keep existing cabling and network infrastructure: The physical setup doesn’t need to be completely torn out.
• Upgrade your recorder: Swap your current recorder with a compliant, open platform that supports both your existing cameras and future replacements.
• Tighten camera security: Reduce immediate risks by changing default passwords, restricting network access, and disabling unused features.
• Create a phased replacement plan: Over time, replace cameras with NDAA-compliant options that meet new regulations.

The key is not to rush, it’s about having a plan. Without one, businesses risk scrambling to replace equipment under pressure when it’s time to expand or upgrade.

Canada is not the first country to ban Hikvision products in government agencies. Due to concerns over national security and human rights abuses, several countries have either restricted or completely banned Hikvision equipment. Here’s a look at the countries and unions that have placed a ban on Hikvision, and the extent of these restrictions:

• United States: The U.S. banned Hikvision from receiving federal contracts, citing security concerns.
• United Kingdom: In November 2022, the government prohibited the use of Hikvision equipment in official buildings after a review of security risks.
• European Union (EU): While not officially banned across all government institutions, the EU removed all Hikvision thermal cameras from the EU Parliament in 2021.
• Australia: In 2023, the Australian Department of Defense removed all Hikvision cameras from its buildings.
• South Korea: In 2021, South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT temporarily banned the purchase and use of Hikvision products.

With the growing concerns over the security risks associated with Hikvision cameras, there’s a noticeable shift towards more secure alternatives. Many businesses are now looking for options that comply with U.S. National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) regulations, which ensure the surveillance equipment meets specific cybersecurity and national security standards.

• Growth of NDAA/Secure-Certified Brands: NDAA-compliant cameras are gaining popularity as they guarantee that products do not pose a threat to national security. These cameras are rigorously tested and certified to meet the standards set for government and private-sector security systems.
• What Features Matter More Post-Ban: As security concerns increase, features like encrypted video streams, secure user authentication, and regular firmware updates are now essential. Businesses are seeking products with robust cybersecurity measures built in, such as multi-factor authentication (MFA) and end-to-end encryption, to protect sensitive data from potential hacks or unauthorized access.

In light of the Hikvision ban, it’s clear that businesses must take a proactive approach to their security systems. The growing concerns over national security and the evolving landscape of cybersecurity mean that choosing the right technology is more important than ever. By upgrading existing systems, tightening security, and transitioning to certified alternatives, businesses can continue to protect their assets without disruption.

At Spotter Security, our goal is simple, to install the right security solution for your business, so you never feel let down by your security system. Many businesses waste money on security solutions that don’t work when they need them. We help you choose the right technology, install it properly, and make sure it’s running when it matters most. With the right systems in place, you can confidently move forward, knowing your business is secure from emerging threats and future challenges.