Technology

VPN apps have secret connections to China

Numerous VPN apps that can be found in the app stores Apple’s and Googlees have hidden connections to China. With regard to data protection that such offers promise, this is a huge problem.

Sanctioned Qihoo 360 involved

The connections were uncovered by a new one report of the Tech Transparency Project (TTP). Accordingly, at least 13 VPN apps in the Apple App Store and 11 are affected in the Google Play Store. These applications have direct or indirect relationships with companies in China – a country in which companies are legally obliged to pass on user data to government agencies on request.

It is particularly explosive that several of these VPN providers have connections to the Chinese cyber security company Qihoo 360, which has already been sanctioned by the US government. Two of the affected apps are available in both Apple and Google Store, two more exclusively on Google.

Already in April the TTP had identified more than 20 VPN apps with a Chinese background in Apple’s app store. As a result, Apple removed three apps with connections to Qihoo 360. Nevertheless, the organization emphasizes that the majority of the applications concerned are still available – without any warning to the users.

Michelle Kuppersmith, director of the overarching organization Campaign for Accountability, criticizes: “Apple and Google continue to ignore known security concerns and enable these apps to potentially spy on American users.” It openly asks the question of whether the economic interests of the corporations are behind the inaction.

Apple: No problem

In a statement, Apple explained that the origin of app providers was not distinguished as long as they correspond to the company’s guidelines and the applicable laws. VPN apps are obliged to provide transparent information about data collection and use and should not pass on any data to third parties.

The debate about the protection of user data in connection with Chinese company is not new – it is also at the center of Tikok’s discussions. Despite a law that calls for a separation from TikKOK and the Chinese parent company bytedance, the app remains available in the United States. A final decision could be made on June 19 – however, renewed extension of the deadline is already being discussed. The affected apps in the Apple App Store: