Paxton Sues Drone Firm Anzu for CCP Ties, Data Risks

AUSTIN, TX – Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton isn’t playing games. This week, he’s come down hard on companies with suspected ties to the Chinese Communist Party, and today, Anzu Robotics, LLC (“Anzu”) found itself squarely in his crosshairs. Paxton filed a lawsuit alleging the drone manufacturer deliberately misled Texas consumers about the true origin and security risks of its products, essentially rebranding Chinese-made DJI drones to skirt federal scrutiny.

The suit claims Anzu is a pass-through entity, designed to allow DJI – already flagged by the U.S. government due to its CCP connections – to continue operating in the American market despite restrictions. Concerns surrounding DJI technology include potential surveillance capabilities, unchecked data collection, and direct access by the Chinese government. This isn’t some theoretical threat; it’s about protecting Texans’ personal information and national security, according to the Attorney General.

“Anzu Robotics products are nothing more than a 21st century trojan horse linked to the CCP,” Paxton stated bluntly. “My office is taking several targeted actions against CCP-aligned companies this week to protect the people of Texas and stop Communist China’s influence in Texas. No company will be allowed to deceive Texans and serve as a pathway for foreign adversaries to exploit American markets, access personal data, or threaten our national security.” This action follows Paxton’s lawsuit earlier this week against TP-Link, further signaling a crackdown on China-linked tech firms.

The investigation by Paxton’s office revealed that Anzu allegedly failed to disclose its partnership with DJI, falsely claiming its drones weren’t connected to the CCP. However, the lawsuit details findings that Anzu drones still utilize DJI hardware, firmware signed and encrypted by DJI, and DJI software components – meaning the same security vulnerabilities remain fully intact. It’s a thin veneer of rebranding, Paxton argues, designed to fool consumers and regulators.

Paxton is seeking significant relief, including an injunction to halt Anzu’s deceptive practices in Texas. He’s also pursuing civil penalties and any other legal remedies available to safeguard Texans and national security. The Attorney General is sending a clear message: transparency is non-negotiable, and attempts to circumvent security measures will be met with swift legal action.

The full lawsuit is available for review here. This case, like the one against TP-Link, underscores Paxton’s aggressive stance against perceived threats from the CCP and his commitment to protecting Texas citizens from potential foreign exploitation. Expect more action on this front as the investigation unfolds.