Taiwan Warns of Spyware Threat from Chinese App AMap

• •Taiwan's National Security Bureau warns that AMap poses serious cybersecurity risks.
• •The app collects sensitive data even when closed, transmitting it to China.
• •Taiwan has banned AMap's use in government agencies due to its security concerns.

Taiwan's National Security Bureau has identified the Chinese app AMap as a significant national security threat. An internal investigation revealed that AMap continues to collect sensitive user data, including call histories and location data, even after the app is closed. This data is transmitted to servers in China, raising alarms about privacy and security. Director-General Tsai Ming-yen reported nine cybersecurity concerns out of 15 categories reviewed. AMap's user agreement allows data sharing with third parties, which is particularly concerning given China's legal obligations for firms to assist state authorities. The app has been classified as a cybersecurity risk under Taiwan's Cybersecurity Management Act, leading to a ban on its use in government agencies. The Ministry of Digital Affairs is conducting a separate review of the situation, expected to conclude later this month.