DJI, a Chinese drone manufacturer, has faced scrutiny from the United States government due to several concerns, primarily centered on potential national security risks and human rights issues.
Specifically, the US government has expressed concerns about:
Data Security: The main concern is that DJI drones, being manufactured in China, could potentially collect sensitive data (including images, videos, and telemetry) and transmit it back to the Chinese government. While DJI has denied these allegations and highlighted security features like Local Data Mode and data encryption, independent audits by various organizations and government agencies have yielded mixed results.
Ties to the Chinese Military: The US Defense Department has added DJI to a list of companies allegedly working with the Chinese military, a designation that DJI denies and is actively challenging in court.
Human Rights Violations: The US government has placed DJI on blacklists due to allegations that its drones are used by Chinese police to surveil ethnic Uyghur minorities in China’s Xinjiang region. DJI disputes these claims, stating that they have nothing to do with the treatment of Uyghurs and only market their products for civilian use.
National Security Risks for Critical Infrastructure: Several US agencies, including the FBI and CISA, have warned that Chinese-manufactured drones, including those made by DJI, pose a significant risk to US critical infrastructure and national security.
Potential consequences for DJI in the USA
Restrictions on Federal and State Agencies: Many US federal and state government agencies have already banned or restricted the use and purchase of DJI drones.
Potential Import/Sales Ban: The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) includes a provision that could lead to an automatic ban on new DJI drones in the US if a security audit is not completed by December 23, 2025. As of July 2025, the audit had not been scheduled.
Market Share Impact: Despite the controversy, DJI still holds a significant share of the US drone market. However, the ongoing uncertainty has led to difficulties for resellers and consumers, with many shipments being delayed or blocked by customs officials.
DJI recently released its 2025 Drone Security White Paper, which details the company’s security measures and privacy controls for its drones. The white paper, first published in 2020, has been updated to reflect recent advancements and address concerns about data security and privacy. It highlights features like Local Data Mode (LDM), data encryption, and independent security audits. The white paper also introduces DJI FlightHub 2 On-Premises, a self-hosted drone management solution for enterprise users.
Key Updates in the 2025 White Paper:
Local Data Mode (LDM):
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DJI drones can now operate entirely offline, severing internet connections and preventing data from being synced to DJI servers, even for U.S. users.
Data Encryption:
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Personal information and flight data are encrypted using AES-256 encryption, ensuring secure storage and transmission.
Secure Boot:
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Firmware integrity is protected by secure boot processes, preventing unauthorized software from loading.
Independent Audits:
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DJI has undergone and continues to undergo independent security audits by third-party firms like Booz Allen Hamilton and FTI Consulting.
ISO 27701 Certification for FlightHub 2:
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DJI FlightHub 2 has received ISO 27701 certification, demonstrating compliance with global privacy standards.
FlightHub 2 On-Premises:
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This new solution allows enterprise customers to manage drone data within their own secure IT environments.
Addressing Security Concerns:
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The white paper directly addresses concerns about DJI drones posing a national security risk, emphasizing the company’s commitment to data protection and operational reliability.
Significance of the White Paper:
Increased Transparency:
The white paper provides a comprehensive overview of DJI’s security measures, promoting transparency and user confidence.
Reassurance for Users:
The document aims to reassure users, especially those in enterprise and public safety sectors, about the security of their data when using DJI drones.
Response to Bans and Scrutiny:
The white paper is released amidst ongoing discussions about potential DJI bans and increased scrutiny of the company’s practices.
Focus on User Control:
DJI emphasizes that users have full control over their data and can choose to share it with DJI or keep it offline.
From the DJI site
Drone Security White Paper
The white paper outlines key systems in our drones and the security measures DJI has implemented to bolster security, enhance privacy controls, and protect the integrity of user data. It has been updated to reflect additional security improvements and new product developments, in line with our longstanding commitment to drone safety and security.
The paper covers the following components of a DJI drone system:
1. Device security:
Employment of Trusted Execution Environment (TEE) and FIPS-certified DJI Core Crypto Engine for strong chip and hardware security.
2. Application security:
Introduces DJI’s approach to securing the flight applications that operate the drones, as well as covers SDK and open source information.
3. Data security & privacy controls:
DJI believes users should have control over their data. As such, we continuously enhance and expand the security protocols and privacy controls built into our drones. For example, any personal information provided by users (such as names or email addresses for account registration) is secured with AES-256 encryption while in storage. Operators can activate “Local Data Mode,” which disconnects the flight app from the internet entirely. They also have the option to operate and update their drone offline and can add a non-decryptable security code for an added layer of protection.
4. Communication security:
Lists the protocols and security considerations for device interconnection between the drone, its remote controller, cloud infrastructure and mobile device (where applicable).
5. Cloud security:
Outlines DJI’s options for storing and managing data on different types of cloud architecture. This includes DJI FlightHub 2 On-Premises version which offers enterprise operators with a private cloud solution for self-managed data control, allowing independent deployment within their own networks while preserving all core functionalities.
6. Security audits & certifications:
Summarizes third-party audits conducted in the U.S. and Europe, and lists key certifications including FIPS 140-2 and ISO 27001. Since the last edition of this white paper, DJI has undergone two additional notable assessments: a 2024 security audit conducted by FTI Consulting and an ISO 27701 certification for DJI FlightHub 2 in 2025.
7. Bug Bounty Program:
DJI is the first drone maker to introduce a Bug Bounty Program to encourage security researchers to contribute to our data security efforts by responsibly detecting and reporting potential vulnerabilities. The program has been running since 2017, with rewards for qualifying bugs ranging from $50 USD to $30,000 USD, based on DJI’s risk assessment of the potential impact of any discovered vulnerabilities.
Link to the DOC
Is there a DJI ban in the U.S.? No. There is no DJI ban in place right now.
But DJI could be banned by the end of this year.
Here’s the overview:
Automatic ban by December. If DJI isn’t formally audited for security by December 23, 2025, the 2025 NDAA will automatically ban new DJI products by adding them to the FCC Covered List. Read DJI’s call for the audit here.
DJI is out of stock everywhere. Although DJI isn’t banned, its drones are out of stock almost everywhere you look. Read about DJI inventory troubles here.
This guide to the DJI ban covers everything you need to know, starting with the most important facts and drilling into the history.
Here’s everything we cover:
DJI Ban News & Developments
What Is the DJI Ban?
What Can You Do to Stop the Ban?
What Should DJI Owners Do?
Should I Buy a DJI Drone Right Now?
State and Local DJI Bans
History of the DJI Ban
Alternatives to DJI
Is DJI Actually Spying on the U.S.?
DJI Ban FAQ
DJI BAN NEWS & DEVELOPMENTS
1. NDAA Review Trigger: Where Things Stand
The biggest news for DJI in 2025 is the looming NDAA review deadline.
Under the National Defense Authorization Act passed in late 2024, a U.S. national security agency must complete a formal security review of DJI by December 23, 2025. If no agency steps up to do the audit, DJI will be automatically added to the FCC Covered List, which would effectively ban new DJI drones from being imported or sold in the U.S.
As of July 2025, no audit has been scheduled. DJI has publicly called on the government to conduct the review, stating they have “nothing to hide.” If the deadline passes with no review, the ban will take effect by default—regardless of any actual security findings.
2. DJI Drone Shortage
While there is no official ban, DJI drones are already extremely hard to find in the U.S.
Many shipments are being delayed or blocked by U.S. customs, partly due to enforcement of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) and increased scrutiny of Chinese tech imports. (DJI denies being in violation of the UFLPA.)
The FCC has also suspended new equipment authorizations for DJI models, making it hard for retailers to restock. As a result, most major U.S. dealers are reporting near-total shortages of DJI drones and accessories.
3. No U.S. Mavic 4 Pro Release
DJI’s highly anticipated Mavic 4 Pro launched globally in May 2025, but was never released in the U.S. due to ongoing customs issues and regulatory uncertainty.
While a few units surfaced through unofficial channels, DJI’s official U.S. partners never offered the drone for sale, and warranties aren’t honored for imports.
As of July 2025, American customers are still waiting for any official release.
WHAT IS THE DJI BAN?
People have been calling for a ban on DJI drones in the U.S. since around 2017, mostly because of concerns about data security and the company’s ties to the Chinese government.
Over the years, these concerns have led to a wave of proposed bans and new rules, with lawmakers and agencies worried that DJI drones could send sensitive data back to China or be used for spying.
Fast forward to today, and the biggest push to ban DJI comes from the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Here’s how it works:
The NDAA gives U.S. national security agencies a one-year window to review DJI.
If no agency steps up to do a formal security audit by December 23, 2025, DJI drones will be automatically banned by being added to the FCC Covered List.
This move would block new DJI drones from being imported or sold in the U.S., and could make it much harder to use them in general.
This approach is different from earlier proposals—like the Countering CCP Drones Act—which would have banned DJI right away. The NDAA provided a bit of breathing room for concerns about a potential ban, making it seem like we didn’t have to worry about a ban.
But if no action is taken, the ban happens by default.
As of July 2025, no agency has scheduled a review, and DJI is on track to be banned in the U.S. at the end of the year unless something changes.
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO STOP THE BAN?
If you’re concerned about the future of DJI drones in the U.S.—especially with the looming 2025 NDAA review deadline and other proposed drone legislation—there are still ways to make your voice heard.
Use this tool to find your Senators and House Representative based on where you live.
The same page includes contact details for your members of Congress. You can call or send a message to share your thoughts about the NDAA review-triggered ban or any other drone-related legislation.
Here’s a script you can use when reaching out, either in writing or by phone:
Dear [Senator/Representative Name],
I am writing as a concerned constituent regarding the upcoming automatic ban on DJI drones mandated by the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which will take effect if DJI is not formally audited by December 23.
DJI drones are widely used by hobbyists, professionals, and public safety agencies across the U.S. The current lack of inventory and potential ban will significantly impact many Americans who rely on this technology.
I urge you to support efforts that allow for a fair and timely audit of DJI products rather than an automatic ban that could harm consumers and businesses alike.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
Sincerely,
Your name
WHAT SHOULD DJI OWNERS DO NOW?
With the NDAA audit deadline approaching and a possible automatic ban on DJI after December 23, 2025, current DJI owners should take steps to protect their investment and prepare for potential changes.
What to Expect in Early 2026 if the Ban Is Triggered
Continued flight for existing drones. But no new sales or imports of DJI products in the U.S.
Official support may end. This could include firmware, repairs, and warranty claims.
Insurance and regulatory issues may arise. This could happen for both commercial and public safety operators using unsupported drones.
Second-hand market complications. Transfers and sales will require extra care due to DJI’s strict binding policy.
How to Prepare for a Potential Ban
Update firmware. Ensure your drone and controller are running the latest firmware and app versions before the deadline. Future updates may be unavailable.
Buy spare parts. Stock up on propellers, batteries, and other key components while they are still available.
Back up your data. Download and securely store all flight logs, photos, and videos you want to keep, as cloud services or app access could be affected.
Check app and account access. Make sure you know your DJI account credentials and have access to the DJI Fly or other required apps. Some app updates may require you to log in again to maintain functionality.
SHOULD I BUY A DJI DRONE RIGHT NOW?
Right now, buying a new DJI drone in the U.S. is nearly impossible—most retailers are completely out of stock due to ongoing customs delays, the FCC’s pause on new equipment authorizations, and the uncertainty around the NDAA review deadline.
If you want a DJI drone, your only real option is to buy a used or refurbished model from a trusted seller.
But if you’re considering a second-hand DJI drone, be careful: DJI introduced a strict new policy on June 19, 2025 that only allows account unbinding, rebinding, or binding requests from the current bound account holder.
This means you’ll need the original owner’s help to transfer ownership and activate the drone under your own DJI account. If the seller can’t or won’t help, you may end up with a drone you can’t fly or update.
When buying used, stick to reputable sources—established drone shops, certified refurbishers, or trusted peer-to-peer platforms with buyer protection. Always confirm the drone can be unbound and rebound to your account before you pay.
DJI has said it will continue supporting existing drones for now, but it’s unclear how long that support will last, especially if a federal ban goes into effect. If the NDAA review isn’t completed by December 23, 2025, and DJI is added to the FCC Covered List, future software updates, warranty service, and parts availability could all be at risk.
Bottom line: DJI drones are still legal to own and fly in the U.S., but it’s a risky time to buy. If you find a used model and can confirm you’ll be able to activate and support it, it might be worth it—just know you’re buying into a lot of uncertainty.
STATE AND LOCAL DJI BANS
In addition to federal action, a growing number of U.S. states and cities have passed or are considering bans and restrictions on DJI and other Chinese-made drones, particularly for government and public safety use.
Here’s an overview:
States and Cities with Active Bans or Restrictions
Florida. One of the first and most high-profile states to ban all government agencies from using DJI and other Chinese-made drones. The law requires agencies to replace non-compliant drones and restricts procurement to approved vendors only.
Arkansas. Prohibits public entities from purchasing drones manufactured in China or containing significant Chinese components.
Texas. Has enacted procurement restrictions for state agencies, limiting the purchase and use of drones from certain foreign manufacturers, including DJI.
Mississippi. As of January 2025, all state agencies must buy drones exclusively from U.S. manufacturers, with a ban on Chinese-made or Chinese-component drones.
Nevada: New law (2025) gives the state authority to dictate which drones agencies can purchase, including the power to ban specific vendors like DJI.
Federal agencies: Many federal departments (e.g., Department of the Interior, Department of Defense) have already grounded or banned DJI and other Chinese drones for official use.
States and Cities Considering New Bans
California. Several bills have been introduced to restrict or ban Chinese-made drones for state and local government use. As of July 2025, these are still under debate.
New York. Legislative proposals are under review to limit public agency procurement of DJI and other Chinese brands.
Other states. Georgia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania have introduced or are considering similar bills, but none have passed as of July 2025.
Major cities. Some city governments, especially in large metro areas, are reviewing their drone procurement policies and may move to restrict DJI use for public safety and infrastructure.
Key Differences: State/Local vs. Federal NDAA Ban
Scope. State/local bans typically apply only to government and public safety agencies, not to private businesses or recreational users. The NDAA-triggered federal ban would impact all new imports, sales, and use of DJI drones on U.S. communications infrastructure.
Enforcement. State bans are enforced through procurement rules and agency compliance, while the federal ban would be enforced at the border and through FCC regulations.
Affected Users. State/local bans mainly affect police, fire, emergency management, and other public agencies. The federal ban would have broader effects, including on commercial operators and consumers.
HISTORY OF THE DJI BAN
As we mentioned in the introduction to this guide, the calls for a DJI ban started way back in 2017, when U.S. agencies first raised concerns about data security and the company’s ties to the Chinese government.
Here’s a timeline covering major events in the efforts to ban the company:
Now (July 2025). No federal agency has scheduled a formal audit of DJI. If this doesn’t change, the NDAA’s automatic ban will take effect after December 23, 2025.
July 2025. DJI drones are nearly impossible to find in U.S. stores due to ongoing customs delays and lack of new FCC authorizations.
June 2025. DJI releases a new white paper addressing privacy and security, emphasizing supply chain transparency and ethical labor practices.
Spring 2025. The FCC suspends new equipment authorizations for DJI models pending the outcome of the NDAA review, further impacting supply.
Early 2025. U.S. Customs begins holding or delaying DJI shipments under the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, leading to widespread shortages of DJI drones and accessories in the U.S.
December 2024. The final NDAA is signed into law, dropping the Countering CCP Drones Act but adding a review trigger: if a federal agency doesn’t complete a formal security audit of DJI by December 23, 2025, DJI will be automatically added to the FCC Covered List.
October 2024. The Senate continues deliberations on the standalone bill, considering changes to address concerns from public safety officials and the drone industry.
September 2024. Senators Mark Warner and Rick Scott in