Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has opened an investigation into Lorex Technology Inc., a home security camera company, over concerns that its products may be linked to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and could pose risks to national security and consumer privacy.
The inquiry centers on whether Lorex has misrepresented the safety and data security of its cameras while continuing to rely on technology and components from Dahua Technology, a Chinese surveillance giant previously identified by U.S. authorities as a potential national security threat. Dahua has been flagged by multiple federal agencies for its connections to military and intelligence activity within China.
Lorex, once a wholly owned subsidiary of Dahua, was sold in 2022 to Taiwan-based Skywatch. However, industry supply chain records and federal reports indicate that Dahua still plays a key role in producing parts used in Lorex systems, including core camera components and software infrastructure. Those lingering ties are at the center of Paxton’s probe.
In a statement responding to the investigation, Lorex confirmed it is aware of the attorney general's actions and said the company intends to fight the allegations.
“We fully intend to contest the allegations made by the Attorney General, and we are confident that a fair hearing will determine that Lorex has taken the appropriate steps to safeguard customer privacy,” the company wrote.
But Texas officials argue the continued presence of Dahua technology raises serious concerns. Federal regulators, including the U.S. Department of Commerce and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), have previously placed Dahua under trade restrictions for its involvement in surveillance operations linked to the Chinese government. Dahua equipment has been banned from use by federal agencies, citing hacking risks and the threat of unauthorized access to sensitive data.
Security experts say that even indirect ties—such as shared hardware design, firmware, or remote network connections—could leave American consumers vulnerable to data breaches or foreign surveillance. Because security cameras are typically connected to home internet networks and cloud storage services, investigators are concerned that any backdoor access could provide a pathway into private households and businesses.
Despite these warnings, Lorex cameras remain widely available for purchase across Texas, including at major retailers such as Amazon, Costco, and Best Buy.
“Texans should never have to worry that the devices protecting their homes could be tied to foreign adversaries,” Paxton said in a statement. “Any company that gives the CCP a foothold in American life will face the full force of Texas law.”
Texas is not alone in examining the company. Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers has filed a lawsuit alleging that Lorex misled consumers by marketing its cameras as “safe and secure” while failing to disclose its ongoing reliance on Dahua components. Florida’s attorney general has also launched a review into the company's supply chain practices.
Paxton’s office said the current investigation will focus on whether Lorex engaged in deceptive trade practices under Texas consumer protection laws, particularly regarding the privacy, cybersecurity, and origin of its surveillance products.
The findings could have implications beyond Texas, potentially influencing national debates about foreign-manufactured technology and the security of everyday consumer devices.
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