U.S. lawmakers urge probe into security risks of Chinese TP-Link Wi-Fi routers

U.S. lawmakers are urging the Commerce Department to investigate the cybersecurity risks associated with routers from the Chinese company TP-Link Technologies. Representatives John Moolenaar and Raja Krishnamoorthi expressed concerns in a letter to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, highlighting the "unusual degree of vulnerabilities" found in TP-Link routers. They requested a response by the end of August regarding potential security risks and whether TP-Link products should face restrictions in the U.S. The lawmakers pointed to China's stringent data protection laws, which they argue compel companies like TP-Link to comply with the Chinese government's demands. They also referenced cyber activities by the Chinese hacking group Volt Typhoon, which has targeted U.S. critical infrastructure by infiltrating home routers. Past incidents have shown that vulnerabilities in TP-Link routers have been exploited by hackers to launch attacks or create botnets. TP-Link has stated that it does not sell routers in the U.S. and has undergone a global restructuring to separate its operations in China from its U.S. entity. U.S. national security agencies have raised alarms about Chinese regulations that may allow government hackers to exploit vulnerabilities before they are disclosed publicly.

- U.S. lawmakers are calling for an investigation into TP-Link routers due to cybersecurity concerns.

- The request is based on vulnerabilities in TP-Link products and potential compliance with Chinese government demands.

- The Chinese hacking group Volt Typhoon has been linked to attacks involving home routers.

- TP-Link claims it does not sell routers in the U.S. and has restructured its operations.

- National security agencies are wary of Chinese regulations affecting vulnerability reporting.