US telecom operators have turned to Congress to try to stop Google from implementing a new form of encrypted DNS resolution. They fear Goolge acting on its own to implement encrypted DNS lookups in the Chrome broswer and Android OS could give the company too much power and restrict ISPs' access to the system. The industry groups USTelecom, CTIA and NCTA sent a joint letter to several Congressional committees active in the area asking them to look into the matter.
Google is beginning to implement encrypted Domain Name System lookups into Chrome and Android through a new protocol for wireline and wireless service, known as DNS over HTTPS (DoH). This bypasses the traditional DNS text lookup system in favour of using secure HTTPS connections, providing more security and privacy for end-users.
However, the centralized control of encrypted DNS by Google may interfere with other services provided by ISPs, they warned. DNS is used to build other internet features and functionality, such as the provision of parental controls and IoT management for end users, connecting end users to the nearest content delivery networks, and assisting rights holders and law enforcement in enforcing judicial orders against online piracy.
Moreover, the telecom operators are concerned about the potential risks of default, centralized resolution of DNS queries by Google, rather than the current system of dispersed DNS queries. The collection of the majority of worldwide DNS data by a single, global internet company raises competition concerns, especially given the large share of internet traffic that passes through Chrome and Android.
The telecom groups want Congress to obtain more information from Google on the matter and encourage the company to work with the wider industry before implementing encrypted DNS. The operators said it would be better to agree on a standard implementation through the Internet Engineering Task Force.
