Texas AG sues TP-Link over purported connection to China

Source: Engadget

Background

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced that the state is suing Wi‑Fi router maker TP‑Link, alleging deceptive marketing of product security and claims that Chinese hacking groups could access American devices through the routers.

Lawsuit Details

• Allegations: The lawsuit asserts that TP‑Link’s “ownership and supply‑chain are tied to China,” subjecting the company to Chinese data laws that could compel compliance with requests from Chinese intelligence agencies.
• Security Risks: It also alleges that firmware vulnerabilities in TP‑Link hardware have already “exposed millions of consumers to severe cybersecurity risks.”
• Timeline: Paxton began investigating TP‑Link in October 2025. In January of the same year, Texas Governor Greg Abbott prohibited state employees from using TP‑Link products.

Company Response

Engadget has reached out to TP‑Link for comment on the lawsuit and Paxton’s claims. Updates will be added if a response is received.

Prior Federal Investigation

TP‑Link was reportedly under federal investigation in 2024 after its devices were linked to the massive “Salt Typhoon” hack, which accessed data from multiple U.S. telecom companies.

Context

Despite indications that the federal government was preparing to ban TP‑Link in 2025, Reuters reported that the Trump administration paused plans to ban the company’s routers in early February, ahead of a meeting between President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping.