Cyber News Gator

A coalition of U.S. lawmakers is urging the Department of Commerce to take immediate action against TP-Link, a Chinese networking equipment manufacturer, citing serious national security threats. In a letter addressed to Secretary Howard Lutnick, the officials expressed support for an ongoing federal investigation and called for a ban on future sales of TP-Link products in the United States.

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The letter highlights multiple security risks linked to TP-Link, including its alleged ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and its compliance with China’s National Security Law, which could provide the CCP access to U.S. networks. Lawmakers pointed to TP-Link’s role in enabling cyber-attacks through the exploitation of small and home office (SOHO) routers and other equipment, describing them as prime targets due to their lack of enterprise-level security. The company is reportedly the only major router manufacturer not participating in industry-wide botnet mitigation efforts, further raising concerns about its intentions.

In addition to the cybersecurity issues, TP-Link is under scrutiny for its pricing practices. The Department of Justice has launched a criminal antitrust investigation into the company’s alleged use of predatory pricing to dominate the U.S. retail market. TP-Link currently controls nearly 60 percent of the domestic retail router and Wi-Fi system market, a development lawmakers say threatens American technology firms and national security. The company is also accused of circumventing tariffs, adding economic risks to its expanding market share.

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Lawmakers emphasized the urgency of prohibiting further sales of TP-Link products in the U.S., warning that continued inaction allows foreign adversaries to strengthen their cyber capabilities while undermining American industry. The push comes amid broader federal efforts to secure the nation’s information and communications technology infrastructure, bolstered by President Trump’s Executive Order 13873, which authorizes the Department of Commerce to block transactions posing unacceptable risks to national security.

Article based upon information from a May 14, 2025 congressional letter to the U.S. Department of Commerce.