TP-Link, a leading manufacturer of wireless routers, has filed a lawsuit against its rival, Netgear, alleging that the latter orchestrated a smear campaign by spreading false claims that its networking technology has been infiltrated by Chinese hackers. The lawsuit, filed in Delaware federal court, claims that Netgear’s campaign has led to erroneous reports that could cost TP-Link over $1 billion in sales. The suit alleges that Net, which is publicly traded, violated a 2024 patent settlement agreement by disparaging its competitor. This settlement, which was reached after a long-standing patent dispute, required Netgear to promise not to disparage TP-Link, according to the suit. The allegations come as TP-Link faces growing scrutiny from US lawmakers over national-security concerns, with both Democratic and Republican lawmakers expressing alarm that its network equipment could be compromised by Chinese hackers. Recent attacks on TP-Link routers have intensified these concerns, raising fears over the potential for state-sponsored cyber threats. The lawsuit highlights the growing tensions between US tech companies and their Chinese counterparts, as well as the geopolitical implications of cybersecurity concerns.
While Netgear has not yet responded to the allegations, the lawsuit underscores the competitive dynamics within the networking industry and the potential for corporate rivalry to escalate into national-security debates. Industry analysts suggest that such accusations could have broader implications for market confidence and regulatory scrutiny. The case also raises questions about the role of media and influencers in shaping public perception of technology companies, particularly in an environment of heightened geopolitical tensions. As the legal proceedings unfold, both companies will be under increased pressure to address these accusations and clarify the facts surrounding the alleged smear campaign.