- Taiwan blocks the Chinese RedNote, citing risks of fraud and data collection
- The ban has led to an increase in VPN usage as users seek to stay connected
- The decision has sparked a debate, with some considering it censorship
Taiwan has made the decision to block the popular Chinese social media and e-commerce app, RedNote (known as Xiaohongshu in China), citing alarming fraud statistics and concerns over excessive data collection. The app, which boasts about three million users in Taiwan, is an important platform for online shopping, content searching and social interaction.
Reports suggest that the ban, which went into effect on December 4, has already sparked a surge in downloads to top VPN services as users look for ways to bypass the block.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Digital Affairs said an investigation into RedNote raised red flags in 15 different categories, according to Pakinomist. The ministry expressed concern that the app collected sensitive user data, including device IDs, precise location data, contact lists and clipboard information, even when the app was not in use.
Furthermore, officials have linked the platform to over 1,700 cases of fraud in 2024, resulting in losses of more than $7.9 million – the Financial Times reported.
Despite these concerns, the ban has not been universally welcomed, with opposition parties in Taiwan calling the move a form of censorship.
Why the RedNote ban is so controversial
The ban on RedNote highlights the delicate balance between national security and individual freedoms. The Taiwanese government’s actions are rooted in a broader goal of increasing cyber security and combating online fraud. However, the move is considered by some to be politically motivated given the ongoing tensions between Taiwan and China.
The Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) has been a vocal critic of the ban, while a spokesman for the State Council’s Taiwan Affairs Office accused the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) of trampling on democracy and undermining the freedom of the Taiwanese people.
This sentiment is echoed by some of the app’s user base, predominantly young urban women, who feel unfairly targeted. According to the BBC, users claim that other platforms, such as those owned by Meta, are more guilty of similar data collection practices.
For many, RedNote is more than just a social media app; it is an integral part of their lifestyle and its removal has created a void, leaving them cut off from an important part of their digital and cultural lives.
For now, the future of RedNote in Taiwan is uncertain. The government may choose to further tighten the restrictions or seek compromises that allow the app to operate under stricter rules.
Meanwhile, the increase in VPN usage shows a clear willingness of a significant portion of the Taiwanese population to maintain their access to the platform, regardless of the government’s position.
Follow TechRadar on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get our expert news, reviews and opinions in your feeds. Be sure to click the Follow button!
