US authorities are investigating China-based router manufacturer TP-Link for possible national-security risks, citing security flaws and potential vulnerabilities to cyberattacks. The company’s routers power internet in 65% of US homes and small businesses, and its products are used by the Defense Department and other government agencies.
A recent report from Microsoft found that hackers from China had control of a sizable number of networked devices linked to TP-Link routers, which has been used for several cyberattacks on organizations. The investigation was sparked after an October report revealed security flaws in the routers, often left unpatched by consumers and the company itself.
If investigators determine TP-Link poses a threat, authorities could ban its products from sale in the US next year, potentially affecting millions of households and businesses. This comes months after federal officials prohibited Russian software company Kaspersky from selling its products in the US.
TP-Link’s dominance in the router market has grown substantially since 2021, with the company now holding a nearly doubled market share compared to just three years ago. However, this growth has also raised concerns about national security and the potential for cyber threats.
Source: https://fortune.com/2024/12/18/tp-link-router-ban-national-security-china