US investigates China’s TP-Link, maker of Wi-fi routers, after cyberattacks

An influential US lawmaker on Thursday welcomed reports that President Joe Biden’s administration was investigating TP-Link, a Chinese network equipment manufacturer that controls more than 60 per cent of the American Wi-fi router market.

“The recently announced federal investigations into this company are a step in the right direction,” said Representative John Moolenaar, a Republican from Michigan and chairman of the House Select Committee on China Competition.

He expressed hope that the “executive branch will take action to protect our country”, adding that, “In the meantime, Americans would be wise to stop buying TP-Link equipment.”

The Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday that the US Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) was investigating Shenzhen-based TP-Link over security concerns and possible ties to Chinese cyberattacks.

The BIS, which is an agency of the US Commerce Department, has subpoenaed the company and may ban its devices. The US Departments of Defence and Justice are conducting separate inquiries, with the Justice Department investigating whether TP-Link is selling products below cost.

The BIS and Justice Department declined to confirm or deny the investigation. A Pentagon official said that while the department had no statement or information to provide on the specific case, “we seek to adhere to all regulations concerning the acquisition of equipment that may contain foreign components”.