Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers filed a 33-page lawsuit accusing Resideo of selling security cameras tied to Chinese manufacturers Hikvision and Dahua without disclosing known security vulnerabilities and national-security risks. The devices, sold through Resideo’s ADI network, are alleged to be subject to Chinese law that could compel assistance to intelligence services. Hilgers seeks clearer warnings, fines, customer refunds and changes to Resideo’s advertising; Resideo and the Chinese firms have not commented.
Nebraska AG Sues Resideo Over Alleged Undisclosed Surveillance Risks In Security Cameras
An image of various cameras made by Hikvision sold by ADI.
Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers has filed a 33-page lawsuit against smart-home manufacturer Resideo, alleging the company misled consumers about the privacy and security of certain camera products sold through its distribution network.
The complaint, filed in Nebraska state court, contends that Resideo failed to disclose known vulnerabilities and national-security risks tied to cameras produced by Chinese firms Hikvision and Dahua. According to the suit, those manufacturers appear on multiple U.S. government restriction lists — including provisions of the National Defense Authorization Act and actions by the Federal Communications Commission — information Hilgers says was not provided to consumers.
Lawmakers from both parties have long raised concerns that Beijing is expanding its intelligence operations on U.S. soil.
Allegations And Requested Relief
Hilgers alleges the devices, available to U.S. buyers through Resideo’s ADI distribution network, can be compelled under Chinese law to assist national intelligence services. The complaint asks the court to require clearer consumer warnings, impose fines, refund customers who purchased the affected products, and force changes in how Resideo advertises those devices.
"Nebraskans install security cameras to protect their families, homes and businesses — not to invite hidden surveillance into the most private parts of their lives," Hilgers said. "Selling cameras with known security risks while marketing them as ‘secure’ is deceptive and dangerous. That kind of conduct will not be tolerated in Nebraska."
Industry Reaction And Broader Context
Security-industry figures say the case could have implications beyond Nebraska. Michael Lucci, CEO of State Armor, said a Nebraska victory could encourage similar enforcement in other states and criticized companies that relabel or continue to distribute inexpensive foreign-made equipment that may circumvent federal and state safeguards.
A baby monitor camera sits above a crib in a nursery in a California home.
Resideo and the Chinese manufacturers Hikvision and Dahua did not immediately respond to requests for comment, according to the complaint.
Hilgers previously filed a similar suit in September against Lorex, alleging that company concealed ties to a Chinese firm sanctioned by the U.S. over national-security and human-rights concerns. Lawmakers from both parties have long warned that Chinese influence operations can exploit exchanges, research partnerships and investments as cover for espionage — concerns that have grown in recent years.
What’s next: The lawsuit will proceed through Nebraska state court, where Hilgers seeks injunctive relief, consumer refunds and civil penalties if the allegations are proven.
