Taiwan Warns of Data Harvesting Risks from Chinese Apps

Taiwan's Ministry of Digital Affairs (MODA) has issued a warning about cybersecurity risks associated with four Chinese-made mobile applications: Amap, bilibili, iQIYI, and BIMOBIMO. These apps are suspected of harvesting personal data from Taiwanese users and transmitting it to Chinese authorities, raising national security concerns. Amap, which is currently the most downloaded app in Taiwan, exhibited the highest number of risky behaviors, with 11 security concerns identified on Android and eight on iOS. The review conducted by the Administration for Cyber Security (ACS) assessed the apps based on 15 cybersecurity indicators, including data access and user tracking capabilities. Officials noted that under China's Cybersecurity Law and National Intelligence Law, these apps may be compelled to share user data with the Chinese government. Users are advised to be cautious and review app permissions carefully.

Key Points: • Taiwan's MODA warns of cybersecurity risks from four Chinese apps, including Amap. • Amap shows the highest number of risky behaviors, with 11 concerns on Android and eight on iOS. • Users are advised to scrutinize app permissions and adopt cybersecurity measures.