The article says the data they collect include something called "mask leak rates". That means the machine has an airtight mask and could in principle suffocate you if it malfunctions.
Ummm... no. If the CPAP machine fails, you'll just start sucking air in the holes that are normally used to expel your exhalations. (When you exhale, the air goes out through these vents, not back into the machine.)
It's significantly less airflow, and will cause you to wake up, but it's not going to suffocate you.
The difference with a malfunctioning machine is that you still cant get air even after that threshold has been hit (or at least it's very difficult to do so). At that point, your brain kicks you totally out of a sleep state and you awake completely.
If lack of air not making you wake up was the problem, patients would die long before seeing a doctor.
One of the most popular masks is the ResMed Airfit P10.[1] This is a "nasal pillows mask". It is airtight, but only on your nose.
If the mask malfunctions or your nose clogs up, then instead of suffocating, you can open your mouth to breathe.
A full-face mask can presumably malfunction, even though it has a "failsafe" feature to let you breathe.
[1] https://www.resmed.com/us/en/consumer/products/masks/airfit-...