- India has banned 119 Chinese apps from Google Play Store, citing security and privacy risks.
- The apps, mostly video and voice chat platforms, were removed under IT Act 69A.
- The move follows previous bans on Chinese apps, including TikTok and Shareit, since 2020.
The Indian government has taken another significant step in its digital security measures by banning 119 Chinese Apps from the Google Play Store. These apps, primarily developed by companies in China and Hong Kong, have been flagged for security concerns. The latest crackdown is part of India’s continued efforts to safeguard national security and user privacy from potential risks associated with foreign applications.
This move is not the first of its kind. In 2020, the Indian government took a similar step by banning several Chinese app, including popular platforms like TikTok and Shareit. The latest ban further extends India’s digital policy of restricting applications linked to Chinese developers due to security concerns. With this action, the government aims to prevent data misuse and enhance cyber safety.
Digital Strike on Chinese Apps
The banned applications have been listed in the Lumen database, managed by Harvard University. The database tracks app removals globally, including regulatory actions. Notably, India had previously blocked over 100 Chinese apps in June 2020, followed by additional bans in 2021 and 2022. The recent ban continues this trend, reinforcing the government’s focus on digital security.
The ban was implemented under Section 69A of the Information Technology (IT) Act. Interestingly, some of the newly banned apps were linked to developers from regions beyond China, including Singapore, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. According to reports, 15 of the 119 banned apps have already been removed from the Google Play Store, while others remain accessible but are expected to be taken down soon.
These Apps Were Banned
Among the banned apps, a few have been specifically identified:
- ChillChat – A video chat and gaming app developed by the Mangostore team in Singapore, with over a million downloads.
- ChangApp – A widely used Chinese app that has gained millions of users in India.
- HoneyCam – A photo filter app created by an Australian developer, which had significant user engagement.
The Indian government remains firm on restricting applications that pose security risks, ensuring user data protection. Given the previous bans and the ongoing monitoring of foreign apps, more such removals could take place in the future.
The recent decision to remove 119 Chinese App from the Google Play Store highlights India’s continued focus on digital security and national interest. With concerns over data privacy and cybersecurity, such bans are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the country’s app ecosystem. As India strengthens its regulations, users can expect safer alternatives and stricter policies regarding foreign applications.
FAQ
Why were 119 Chinese app banned in India ?
The apps were banned due to security and privacy concerns under IT Act 69A.
Which popular apps are included in the ban ?
Some of the banned apps include ChillChat, ChangApp, and HoneyCam.
Has India banned Chinese app before ?
Yes, India has banned several Chinese apps since 2020, including TikTok and Shareit.
Are all 119 apps removed from the Google Play Store ?
As per reports, 15 apps have been removed, while others are expected to be taken down soon.
Will more Chinese apps be banned in the future ?
The government continues to monitor apps, and more bans may occur if security concerns arise.
