US Lawmakers Urge Investigation into Chinese Wi-Fi Routers Over Security Concerns
US lawmakers John Moolenaar and Raja Krishnamoorthi have called for an investigation into Chinese Wi-Fi routers, particularly those from TP-Link, due to potential security risks. They urged the US Department of Commerce to assess whether these routers pose a national security threat.
TP-Link, a Chinese technology firm specializing in Wi-Fi routers, holds a significant share of the US market. The lawmakers’ letter highlighted concerns that TP-Link products could be vulnerable to hacking by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), posing a serious security threat to the US.
As of 2023, 95 percent of US adults use the internet, with small office/home office (SOHO) routers being a primary means of access. TP-Link, the world’s largest Wi-Fi product provider as of 2022, sells over 160 million products annually across more than 170 countries and is a leading SOHO router provider in the US. TP-Link devices are also used on US military bases.
Numerous researchers and analysts have raised concerns about the risks of TP-Link routers in the US. A former FCC Commissioner cited significant vulnerabilities in TP-Link products, and China’s strict data protection laws require companies like TP-Link to cooperate with Chinese government demands, potentially compromising US security.
FBI Director Christopher Wray has described PRC-sponsored hacking as a severe threat, with groups like Volt Typhoon posing a major risk. Recent operations by the Department of Justice have aimed to remove Volt Typhoon malware from US routers. The letter requests that the Department of Commerce evaluate the threat from PRC-affiliated routers, particularly those from TP-Link, and use its ICTS authorities to address this critical national security concern.
Doubts Revealed
US Lawmakers -: US lawmakers are people who make and pass laws in the United States. They are like the leaders who decide what rules everyone should follow.
John Moolenaar -: John Moolenaar is a person who helps make laws in the United States. He is one of the leaders who is worried about the safety of Wi-Fi routers from China.
Raja Krishnamoorthi -: Raja Krishnamoorthi is another leader in the United States who helps make laws. He is also concerned about the safety of Chinese Wi-Fi routers.
Wi-Fi Routers -: Wi-Fi routers are devices that help connect your computer, phone, and other gadgets to the internet without using wires.
TP-Link -: TP-Link is a company that makes Wi-Fi routers and other internet devices. They sell many of these products in the United States.
US Department of Commerce -: The US Department of Commerce is a part of the US government that helps businesses and makes sure trade is fair. They are being asked to check if the Chinese Wi-Fi routers are safe.
National Security Threat -: A national security threat is something that could harm a country and its people. In this case, it means the Wi-Fi routers might be used to spy on people or cause problems.
Cyberattacks -: Cyberattacks are when someone tries to harm or steal information from computers and networks. It’s like a bad person trying to break into your computer.
Data Security -: Data security means keeping information safe from being stolen or seen by people who shouldn’t see it. It’s like locking up your secrets so no one else can find them.