# Taiwan Flags Security Risks in Popular Chinese Apps After Official Probe

In a move aimed at safeguarding the nation's digital security, Taiwan's National Security Bureau (NSB) has issued a warning regarding the use of popular Chinese apps, citing excessive data collection and data transfers to China as major concerns. The NSB's inspection with law enforcement agencies has revealed multiple violations by these apps, prompting officials to advise the public to exercise caution when installing and using China-developed applications.

The investigation, which was coordinated with the Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau (MJIB) and the Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB) under the National Police Agency, utilized national security testing standards to assess the five Chinese apps in question: TikTok, WeChat, Weibo, Baidu Cloud, and Douyin. The findings have left many wondering if the risks posed by these popular social media platforms outweigh their benefits.

According to the NSB's announcement, the five China-made apps were found to violate key security standards, including excessive data collection, permission abuse, and data sharing. Rednote failed all 15 indicators, while Weibo and Douyin violated 13 each, WeChat 10, and Baidu Cloud 9. These apps not only pose cybersecurity risks beyond normal data practices but also access sensitive user information without consent.

The investigation revealed that these five China-made apps were found to collect device and app data, as well as facial data, screenshots, clipboard, contacts, and location info without user consent. Furthermore, they transmit data to servers in China, raising concerns over misuse due to Chinese law requiring companies to share user data with authorities.

This creates major privacy and security risks for Taiwanese users, who are advised to exercise caution when choosing mobile apps. The NSB's warning comes as countries like the US, UK, Canada, and India have warned or banned China-made apps, while the EU is investigating data theft under GDPR.

As Taiwan has taken steps to ban Chinese tech products—both hardware and software—in government institutions due to cybersecurity concerns, it is essential for citizens to remain vigilant regarding mobile device security. The NSB strongly advises the public to avoid downloading China-made apps that pose cybersecurity risks in order to protect personal data privacy and corporate business secrets.

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