Congress Warns Americans: Stop Using Chinese Routers Due to Ongoing Cybersecurity Concerns

The United States Congress has issued a warning to American consumers, urging them to stop using Chinese internet routers due to ongoing cybersecurity concerns. The move comes as tensions between the US and China continue to escalate, with the two nations engaged in an increasingly bitter trade war and a heated competition in the field of artificial intelligence.

A recent high-profile cyberattack, perpetrated by a group known as Salt Typhoon, has further heightened concerns about the security risks posed by Chinese network companies. The attack, which compromised at least nine US telecom companies and gained access to millions of calls and text messages, has left lawmakers with no choice but to take action.

The House of Representatives Select Committee on China has taken a critical look at several Chinese network companies, including TP-Link, the most popular brand of network routers in the US. Lawmakers have considered banning the company's equipment altogether, although this move is still pending.

In a stark warning to consumers, members of Congress are urging them to stop using TP-Link routers and replace them with alternative devices. According to Reuters, Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi told the committee that "Don't use this" - pointing to a consumer-grade TP-Link router - and added: "I don't have one at home either. It's not a good idea."

Rob Joyce, former NSA Director of Cybersecurity, echoed Krishnamoorthi's sentiments, stating that consumers need to take action and replace their devices with new ones in order to prevent them from being used as tools for cyberattacks on the US.

The move is seen as a significant escalation in the ongoing tensions between the US and China. As the two nations engage in an increasingly bitter rivalry, lawmakers are taking steps to protect American citizens from potential security threats.

In this context, the warning issued by Congress takes on greater significance, highlighting the need for consumers to be aware of the risks posed by Chinese network companies and to take action to mitigate them. With tensions between the US and China continuing to rise, it is clear that cybersecurity will remain a critical issue in the coming months.