Texas Sues TP-Link Over Alleged Chinese Connections

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against TP-Link, accusing the popular router maker of misleading consumers about its ties to China. The lawsuit claims the company is “masking its Chinese connections” while exposing users to potential cyberattacks from Chinese-sponsored threat actors and intelligence agencies.

TP-Link, originally founded in China, has increasingly tried to portray itself as a global brand. The company established a manufacturing facility in Vietnam in 2018 and moved its global headquarters to the United States in 2024 under the new entity, TP-Link Systems. Despite these efforts, Texas alleges the company’s connections to China remain deeply embedded.

Allegations of Deceptive Manufacturing Practices

Although TP-Link markets its products as “Made in Vietnam,” the lawsuit claims the reality is quite different. Paxton argues that “nearly all” components used in TP-Link devices still originate from China. According to the suit, the final assembly in Vietnam does not erase the company’s Chinese supply-chain ties, leaving consumers unaware of the true origin of their devices.

“The final touches TP-Link makes in Vietnam do not cure the company’s deceit of its Chinese affiliations,” the lawsuit states. These claims suggest that consumers purchasing TP-Link routers under the impression of enhanced security may be exposed to vulnerabilities linked to its Chinese manufacturing roots.

Scrutiny Over Security and Consumer Protection

TP-Link’s connections to China have drawn federal attention over the past few years. During the Trump administration, the company faced scrutiny over cybersecurity concerns, including a Federal Trade Commission investigation. Texas opened its probe into TP-Link in October, alleging violations of consumer protection laws for misrepresenting both product security and company affiliations.

Paxton emphasizes that TP-Link’s alleged misrepresentations put users at risk, especially as routers remain a critical entry point for cyberattacks targeting homes and businesses. The state is positioning the lawsuit as a step toward protecting Texans from potential digital threats linked to foreign-controlled supply chains.

Part of a Broader Crackdown on Chinese Companies

This lawsuit against TP-Link is not an isolated case. Texas has ramped up efforts to investigate and hold companies accountable for opaque Chinese connections. On the same day, Paxton also filed a suit against Anzu Robotics, a Texas-based drone company, citing misleading information about product origin, data handling, and security risks.

These legal moves reflect a growing emphasis on supply-chain transparency and consumer safety in the tech industry. Experts say that as technology becomes more interconnected, scrutiny of foreign ties is likely to increase, especially for companies handling sensitive consumer data.

What This Means for TP-Link Users

For TP-Link customers, the lawsuit raises pressing questions about the true security of their devices. While the company claims its products are manufactured outside China and are safe to use, ongoing investigations may reveal undisclosed risks. Consumers are advised to monitor updates from both TP-Link and regulatory agencies regarding potential vulnerabilities.

The case could have broader implications for how global tech companies market their products, especially those with origins or supply chains in countries flagged for cybersecurity concerns. Texas’ legal action against TP-Link may set a precedent for future scrutiny of tech companies with similar international connections.