Question: Which of the following apps of chinese origin has been banned by the government authorities in India due to risk of security breach?
(a)Tiktok
(b)Wechat
(c)UC Browser
(d)All of the above
Answer: (d)
Related facts:
- The Ministry of Information Technology has decided to block 59 apps of chinese origin on June 29, 2020 including Tiktok, Wechat and UC Browser.
- This decision was taken by invoking section 69A of the Information Technology Act read with the relevant provisions of the Information Technology (Procedure and Safeguards for Blocking of Access of Information by Public) Rules 2009.
- This decision was taken in view of the emergent nature of threats as they are engaged in activities which is prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of state and public order.
Complains regarding the ban:
- The Ministry of Information Technology has received many complaints from various sources including several reports about misuse of some mobile apps available on Android and iOS platforms for stealing and surreptitiously transmitting users’ data in an unauthorized manner to servers which have locations outside India.
- The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre, Ministry of Home Affairs has also sent an exhaustive recommendation for blocking these malicious apps.
- The Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-IN) has also received many representations from citizens regarding security of data and breach of privacy impacting upon public order issues.
- This move will safeguard the interests of crores of Indian mobile and internet users. This decision is a targeted move to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace.
By: Himanshu Shukla
Links:
https://www.google.com/amp/s/m.economictimes.com/tech/software/india-bans-59-chinese-apps-including-tiktok-helo-wechat/amp_articleshow/76694814.cms
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=1635206