Govt reminds China-linked companies to ensure strict compliance with app ban order

After banning 59 apps of Chinese origin on June 29, the government on Tuesday directed the linked companies to ensure strict compliance with its orders. In an email to the companies, the Group Coordinator of Cyber Laws and E-Security Rakesh Maheshwari, warned that if any of the listed applications were still available or operating, it would be an offence under the Information Technology Act and could warrant penal provisions.

Citing the “emergent nature of threats” from mobile applications, including popular ones of Chinese origin such as TikTok, ShareIt, UCBrowser, Club Factory and CamScanner, the Centre had banned 59 apps on June 29 based on information that they were engaged in activities “prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity”, defence, security and public order.