Four Additional States Join Lawsuit Against TP‑Link Over Router Security Claims and Chinese Ownership

Four U.S. states filed a lawsuit against networking‑equipment maker TP‑Link on Oct. 6, joining Texas, which sued the firm earlier this year, and accusing the company of misleading consumers about the security of its home‑router products and its ties to China.

The complaint was brought by Florida, Iowa, Montana and Nebraska. Prosecutors allege that TP‑Link, a California‑based subsidiary of a Chinese parent, falsely advertised its routers as “secure” and “independent” of foreign influence while the hardware and firmware could be vulnerable to exploitation.

The case arrives amid a broader governmental push to scrutinize networking gear that originates from firms with perceived links to the Chinese government. Over the past decade, agencies in Washington have warned about potential espionage and supply‑chain risks associated with equipment from companies such as Huawei and ZTE, prompting a wave of bans and tighter procurement rules for federal contracts.

State attorneys general claim TP‑Link violated consumer‑protection statutes, engaged in false advertising and breached state data‑privacy regulations. The lawsuits seek injunctions to halt sales of the contested devices, monetary penalties for consumers and, in some jurisdictions, a recall of affected routers.

TP‑Link has denied the allegations, stating that its products comply with industry security standards and that it will vigorously defend itself in court. A company spokesperson said the firm is committed to “ensuring the safety and reliability of our customers’ networks” and will cooperate with any legitimate investigations.

Legal experts say the multi‑state action could accelerate calls for uniform federal legislation governing the security of consumer networking equipment. If the suits succeed, manufacturers may face stricter labeling requirements and increased scrutiny of foreign ownership, while consumers could see a shift toward routers that undergo independent security audits before reaching the market.