Taiwan Flags 4 Chinese Apps Over Cyber Risks as Amap Shows 11 Android Red Flags
Updated
Updated · Taiwan News · May 27
Taiwan Flags 4 Chinese Apps Over Cyber Risks as Amap Shows 11 Android Red Flags
6 articles · Updated · Taiwan News · May 27
Taiwan’s Ministry of Digital Affairs said tests found Amap, Bilibili, iQIYI and Bimobimo posed cybersecurity and privacy risks, including real-time behavior monitoring and data transfers to servers in China.
Amap drew the strongest warning, with 11 risk items on Android and eight on iOS; officials said it could access location, contacts, health records and other data beyond what its core functions require.
Li Yu-wei, a senior cybersecurity official, said Amap’s traffic-light countdowns and 3D street views could help infer users’ travel routines, while persistent audio and video access could expose private or business information.
The ministry warned Chinese law can compel companies to hand user data to state authorities and urged the public to scrutinize app privacy policies and permission requests.
How are popular Chinese apps becoming tools for surveillance and potential digital control over Taiwan's population?
Is Taiwan’s app crackdown a warning of a new digital iron curtain falling between China and the world?
Taiwan Bans High-Risk Chinese Apps Over Data Security Fears: National Response and Global Implications
Overview
Taiwan has recently flagged Chinese-developed mobile applications as high-risk due to significant security vulnerabilities and concerns over intrusive data collection. This move highlights ongoing worries about digital security and national security risks, as these apps can collect sensitive information and may be compelled by foreign laws to share data with state entities. Experts urge users to be vigilant, check app permissions, and use strong cybersecurity tools. In response, Taiwan has banned certain apps in government and is developing secure domestic alternatives, reflecting a broader international trend to protect personal data and national interests.