Authorities in the US are considering banning TP-Link routers on national security grounds due to their repeated links to Chinese cyberattacks . Investigators at the Commerce, Defense and Justice departments have launched investigations into the company, according to the Wall Street Journal, with TP-Link being subpoenaed by a Commerce Department office.
See also: Hackers exploit vulnerability in D-Link DIR-859 routers
The WSJ reports that US authorities may ban the sale of TP-Link routers within the country next year. The measures taken against TP-Link will likely fall on the incoming Trump administration.
TP-Link has about 65% of the U.S. router market for homes and small businesses , and its Internet communications products are used by the Department of Defense and other federal government agencies. The company’s dominance in the market is at least partly due to the extremely low cost of its routers. The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating whether TP-Link is selling products at a lower cost than they cost to produce, in violation of antitrust laws, according to the WSJ.
See also: TP-Link: Critical vulnerability in Archer C5400X gaming router
The WSJ sources also say that TP-Link often fails to address security flaws that are commonly found in routers shipped to customers. In October, Microsoft revealed a network of compromised networking devices mostly made by TP-Link that were regularly targeted by a hacking campaign linked to the Chinese government.
An anonymous spokesperson for TP-Link’s California-based business unit told the WSJ that the company is assessing potential security risks and taking steps to resolve known vulnerabilities. “We welcome any opportunity to work with the U.S. government to demonstrate that our security practices are fully compliant with industry security standards and to demonstrate our continued commitment to the U.S. market, U.S. consumers, and addressing U.S. national security risks.”
See also: Multiple botnets exploit TP-Link flaws
TP-Link Internet routers are known for their reliability, performance, and user-friendly features. Designed to meet the needs of both home and business users, TP-Link offers a wide variety of models to meet different connectivity requirements. From high-speed Wi-Fi 6 routers for seamless streaming and gaming to affordable options for everyday internet use, TP-Link ensures strong and stable connections. In addition, features such as easy setup, parental controls, and advanced security protocols make TP-Link routers a trusted choice for millions of users around the world.
Source: theverge
