Government Anxious Over Popularity Of Chinese Apps In India


Bangalore: Indian government is getting anxious over potential security risks raised by the popular Chinese apps in the country.

The Chinese apps, WeChat, an instant messaging app, and UC Browser, figured in the top ten most downloaded apps on the Google Play are raising security concerns in the home ministry, the telecom department and the Cyber Emergency Response Team.

In June, Indian Intelligence Bureau (IB) has apparently proposed a ban on Chinese WeChat, citing concerns over proliferation of such service could cause threat to national security. However, Tencent, the company which created the app, said it has complied with all relevant local laws and regulations.

After a lull for nearly two months, the app is back again in spotlight along with the popular mobile browser app for same reasons.

“The government is discussing the matter with various agencies, including the telecom department, about the Chinese app makers' practices and possible data security threats,” senior home ministry official told Economic Times. He also added that no official communication has been sent to the respective companies yet.

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