Stop using these Chinese apps anymore, government has banned them: See list below  

New Delhi: The Ministry of Information Technology, invoking it’s power under section 69A of the Information Technology Act read with the relevant provisions of the Information Technology (Procedure and Safeguards for Blocking of Access of Information by Public) Rules 2009 and in view of the emergent nature of threats has decided to block 59 apps. It has been done so because they are engaged in activities which is prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of state and public order. Among the apps that have been banned are ‘TikTok’, ‘Mobile Legends’, ‘UC Browser’ and ‘Shareit’

Over the last few years, India has emerged as a leading innovator when it comes to technological advancements and a primary market in the digital space. At the same time, there have been raging concerns on aspects relating to data security and safeguarding the privacy of 130 crore Indians. It has been noted recently that such concerns also pose a threat to sovereignty and security of India.

Also read: https://www.orissapost.com/odia-youngsters-say-no-to-chinese-apps-amid-border-crisis/

The IT Ministry has received many complaints from various sources including several reports about misuse of some mobile apps available on Android and iOS platforms for stealing and surreptitiously transmitting users’ data in an unauthorised manner to servers which have locations outside India. The compilation of these data, its mining and profiling by elements hostile to national security and defence of India ultimately impinges upon the sovereignty and integrity of India.

The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre, Ministry of Home Affairs has also sent an exhaustive recommendation for blocking these malicious apps. This ministry has also received many representations raising concerns from citizens regarding security of data and risk to privacy relating to operation of certain apps. There also has been a strong chorus in the public space to take strict action against Apps that harm India’s sovereignty as well as the privacy of our citizens.

Upon receiving of recent credible inputs that such apps pose threat to sovereignty and integrity of India, the government of India has decided to disallow the usage of certain apps, used in both mobile and non-mobile Internet enabled devices. These apps are listed in the attached appendix. This move will safeguard the interests of crores of Indian mobile and internet users. This decision is a targeted move to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace.

List of apps banned: