Chinese State Media Raises Concerns Over Nvidia H20 Chips’ Safety

Chinese state media has questioned the safety of Nvidia’s H20 chips, alleging potential security risks that could impact the country’s technology sector. An article published on Sunday by Yuyuan Tantian, a WeChat account affiliated with state broadcaster CCTV, claimed the H20 chips may contain backdoors allowing unauthorized access, alongside criticisms that they are neither technologically advanced nor environmentally friendly. The commentary concluded that consumers have the option to avoid purchasing them.

The concerns follow a July 31 meeting where China’s cyberspace watchdog summoned Nvidia to address alleged backdoor security risks in the H20 chips, designed for the Chinese market after U.S. export restrictions were imposed in late 2023. The Trump administration initially banned H20 sales in April amid escalating trade tensions but reversed the decision in July. Nvidia has denied the presence of any backdoors that would enable remote access or control.

The critique aligns with earlier statements from People’s Daily, another state outlet, which demanded “convincing security proofs” from Nvidia to restore market trust. The H20 chips, tailored to comply with U.S. export controls, have faced scrutiny over claims of remote shutdown capabilities, fueling a broader debate about foreign technology reliability. Nvidia has not yet responded to the latest allegations.

This development occurs against a backdrop of U.S.-China tech rivalry, with China pushing for domestic chip development amid concerns over reliance on foreign suppliers. The safety debate could influence purchasing decisions by Chinese tech giants, though no official bans or restrictions have been announced.