TP-Link sued by Texas as state plans broader crackdown on Chinese firms

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against TP-Link Systems, while mulling additional legal actions against other Chinese companies, reports StateScoop.

Paxton cites the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act in his suit, arguing that TP-Link misled consumers about the origin and security of its products, including "causing confusion or misunderstanding as to the source of goods or services."

Despite its connections to China, TP-Link labeled products as "Made in Vietnam," allowing the Chinese government possible access to American devices, alleged Paxton. He further cautioned that TP-Link devices, which are already installed in homes and businesses across Texas, are still being extensively distributed in the state.

Texas has previously prohibited state agencies from using or purchasing TP-Link equipment, with Gov. Greg Abbott recently expanding the list of corporations prohibited from doing business in the state to include Chinese firms Alibaba, Shein, and TikTok. On the other hand, TP-Link has continuously denied allegations that its devices pose a threat to national security.