Why It Matters

Arlo Technologies faces a critical juncture as Congress tightens cybersecurity standards for internet-connected devices. The ROUTERS Act, which passed the House in April 2025, directly threatens the infrastructure Arlo’s cameras depend on by directing Commerce to study national security risks from foreign-made routers. Concurrent legislation requiring disclosure of cameras and microphones in smart devices and the FCC’s new Cyber Trust Mark labeling program create compliance burdens while potentially rewarding compliant manufacturers.

The market is projected to grow from $10.71 billion to $68.64 billion by 2035. Legislative outcomes determining how restrictive foreign device bans become could reshape competitive dynamics.

By the Numbers

Arlo Technologies Inc. is a first-time federal lobbying player, beginning advocacy in March 2025. This latest $60,000 quarterly filing brings total spending to $300,000 across six disclosures. Arlo has maintained an exclusive relationship with Cornerstone Government Affairs Inc. throughout its lobbying tenure.

The company’s four-person lobbying team brings significant Capitol Hill credentials. Charles A. Carithers is a former House Homeland Security Committee professional staff member, while Christopher Michael Hodgson previously worked for Rep. Steve Scalise, providing access to House Republican leadership.

The Agenda

Arlo Technologies Inc. is lobbying Congress on the ROUTERS Act and related bills, focusing on cybersecurity standards for internet-connected devices. The smart home security camera maker is engaging on legislation addressing national security risks from foreign-manufactured routers—particularly from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.

The ROUTERS Act passed the House on April 28, 2025, directing the Commerce Secretary to study risks from consumer routers manufactured by countries of concern. Complementary legislation includes H.R. 859 (Informing Consumers about Smart Devices Act), which passed the House and requires manufacturers to disclose if devices contain cameras or microphones—directly impacting Arlo’s product line.

These developments are consequential for Arlo, whose smart home security cameras rely on secure router connectivity. How Congress defines security standards and foreign manufacturer restrictions will materially shape the competitive landscape.

Broader Context

Arlo’s lobbying coincides with sweeping congressional action on IoT security threats. The House Select Committee on China urged Americans to remove TP-Link routers in March 2025, with the Commerce Department subsequently proposing restrictions on Chinese-manufactured routers.

This regulatory momentum creates both risks and opportunities. The FCC’s Cyber Trust Mark program could differentiate compliant products in a security-conscious market. Arlo reported strong Q2 2025 results, with subscription revenue growing 30% year-over-year. Stricter security standards may benefit domestically-trusted manufacturers if they navigate the legislative process strategically.

The Bottom Line

Arlo is lobbying on IoT security legislation as Congress targets foreign-made routers and devices. Arlo’s lobbying strategy signals the company views legislative outcomes—particularly around device restrictions and security standards—as materially important to its business in the rapidly expanding smart home security market.

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