The National Security Bureau of Taiwan (NSB) has issued a critical warning about the use of certain mobile applications that are developed and operated in China. These popular apps, which include TikTok, Weibo, RedNote (also known as Xiaohongshu), WeChat, and Baidu Cloud, are suspected of posing significant security risks due to their data collection and transfer practices.
The public warning comes after a thorough investigation into these apps, undertaken by Taiwan’s NSB in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau and the Criminal Investigation Bureau. This comprehensive review was focused on identifying potential threats these apps could pose to national security through the data they collect.
The investigation revealed a troubling pattern where these apps are collecting user data more extensively than they disclose in their privacy policies. This data is reportedly sent to servers in China, raising fears about data privacy and national security. The NSB has expressed strong concerns that these activities could jeopardize the personal privacy of Taiwanese citizens and potentially undermine Taiwan’s information security infrastructure.
Among the targeted applications, TikTok, the video-sharing app, has drawn international scrutiny for its alleged excessive data collection methods, in addition to its links with its parent company, ByteDance, which is headquartered in Beijing. Weibo, a social media platform that functions similarly to Twitter, and RedNote (Xiaohongshu), a lifestyle-focused app known for its e-commerce features, have also been flagged for similar concerns. Furthermore, popular messaging service WeChat and the Baidu Cloud storage app have not been spared from these assessments.
In response to the warning, officials from Taiwan’s NSB are advising users to exercise caution and carefully consider the privacy risks associated with these applications. They suggest alternative measures such as disabling data syncing, restricting app permissions, and considering non-Chinese equivalents for daily communication and organizational needs.
This heightened state of alert is consistent with Taiwan’s growing focus on cybersecurity and foreign influence, particularly with respect to its relationship with China. Taiwan is highly committed to safeguarding its digital infrastructure and personal data from both external threats and inappropriate manipulation.
This warning serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between the convenience provided by modern technology and the potential risks it might introduce. To protect its citizens and uphold its national security, Taiwan urges its population to be vigilant and proactive in securing their online presence.
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