India Bans 59 Chinese Apps including TikTok
In a press release, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology announced a ban on 59 apps having Chinese links. The list includes TikTok, UC Browser, CamScanner, and ShareIt, which are massively popular in the country. According to the ministry, the apps were banned because they are “engaged in activities that are prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defense of India, the security of the state and public order.” The apps were secretly stealing and transmitting user data in an unauthorized manner to servers located outside India. This imposed a severe risk to the privacy and security of user data. Hence, the centre decided to disallow the usage of these apps on both mobile and non-mobile internet devices.
Chinese Apps That Are Still Not Banned in India
The order issued by the ministry includes 59 mobile apps from China. However, several popular applications still haven’t made to the list, given below.
TikTok Lite (Update: Banned)PUBG Mobile (Update: Banned)PUBG Lite (Update: Banned)MV Master (Update: Banned)AliExpressTurboVPNApp Lock by DoMobile, etc.
Now, there could be multiple reasons behind not including these apps- maybe they didn’t pose a security risk like others, didn’t get caught, or were simply skipped from the list. It could also be the case that some of these apps are under review and may be banned in the future.
Apps Banned by the Indian government
As of now, the following apps have been banned by the Indian government:
Will these Apps be removed from Google Play Store & App Store?
Yes. All the apps listed above have been completely banned for download in the country. Both Google and Apple will be issued an order to remove these Chinese apps, including TikTok from Play Store and App Store.
Will Existing Apps Work on My Phone?
The internet service providers in India, including network operators, will be asked to stop already downloaded apps from communicating with their host servers. As a result, apps like TikTok and UC Browser won’t work, similar to websites that are banned by DOT.
Can I Still Download Banned Chinese Apps?
Android users can still sideload any apps they want to. However, as mentioned above, they won’t be able to connect to the internet. The only way thee apps will work is by using a VPN, which most people won’t use.
Final Words
Over time, China has managed to grab a huge base of Indian users with its home-grown apps. Some of these apps collect and store way more data than required, making it a threat to national security amid tensions between the two nations. Thankfully, all popular Chinese apps have more than enough alternatives in the market. We have already done a detailed article on popular Chinese apps and their Indian and US alternatives in case you’re interested. Also, read- List of Top Chinese Apps On Indian Phones 2020 #Boycott China Apps
