US government is getting closer to banning TP-Link routers

The US government is considering a ban on TP-Link routers due to national security concerns. Several agencies, including Homeland Security, Justice, and Defense, have been involved in the review process. These investigations began at least a year ago, fueled by worries about TP-Link's connection to China. TP-Link, though split from its Chinese parent company, is still suspected of having ties to the Chinese government. U.S. officials fear TP-Link could be compelled to cooperate with Chinese intelligence agencies. They are concerned that malicious software updates could be pushed to devices. TP-Link denies these ties, asserting it is a U.S.-based company not beholden to Chinese influence. TP-Link claims to hold a significant portion of the US router market. The potential ban is linked to ongoing trade negotiations between the US and China. A ban is viewed as a potential bargaining chip in these trade talks.