The U.S. Considers Banning Chinese-Made TP-Link Routers—Here’s Why

Amid growing national security concerns, the U.S. government has targeted TP-Link, a Chinese technology company that dominates the U.S. market for home and small business routers. TP-Link has 65% of the market, and federal authorities are investigating potential vulnerabilities in the company’s equipment that could be exploited by foreign entities to conduct cyberattacks.

TP-Link is the leading router brand on Amazon. As of this month, TP-Link’s Archer AX21 model ranks first in Amazon’s “Best-Selling Computer Routers” category, followed by the TP-Link AX1800. Among the best-selling routers, TP-Link holds six of the top ten spots.

Federal agencies including the Commerce, Defense and Justice departments have launched an investigation into TP-Link following reports that its routers were used in cyberattacks allegedly linked to Chinese state actors. A recent report from Microsoft revealed that infected TP-Link devices were used in ransomware operations, raising concerns about the company’s role in facilitating cyber threats.

In addition to cybersecurity issues, the Justice Department is also investigating TP-Link’s pricing strategies and whether the company violated U.S. antitrust laws by selling routers below production costs. According to the Wall Street Journal, the multifaceted investigation highlights growing scrutiny of Chinese technology companies operating in key areas of the U.S. market.

TP-Link has been criticized for its handling of security flaws. Critics say the company has been slow to address defects in its products, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation. These vulnerabilities create backdoors that malicious actors can exploit to conduct espionage, data theft, or infrastructure damage.

Facing mounting pressure, TP-Link’s U.S. subsidiary has expressed a willingness to cooperate with federal authorities. In a statement to the Wall Street Journal, a TP-Link spokesperson emphasized its commitment to complying with industry security standards and addressing concerns raised by the investigation. “We welcome any opportunity to engage with the U.S. government to demonstrate that our security practices are fully compliant. A TP-Link spokesperson told the Wall Street Journal: “Our products comply with industry safety standards and demonstrate our ongoing commitment to the U.S. market, American consumers, and addressing U.S. national security risks. “

The potential ban on TP-Link products is part of a broader U.S. review of security risks at Chinese technology companies. Previous actions have targeted giants such as Huawei and ZTE, which have been accused of posing a threat to national security through their telecom equipment.

These actions are consistent with a broader strategy to curb critical infrastructure’s reliance on Chinese technology, especially as tensions between China and the United States continue to rise over issues such as trade and cybersecurity.

As the investigation unfolds, TP-Link’s future in the U.S. market remains up in the air. A ban on its products could have widespread ramifications, not only for the company but also for consumers who rely on affordable networking solutions. For now, this scrutiny is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in connected devices and the critical importance of protecting them in an increasingly digital world.

TP-Link has been contacted for comment. This article will be updated if they respond.