Warnings have been issued regarding certain free VPN apps available on both Android and iPhone platforms, which may compromise user privacy by routing data through Chinese-owned companies. The Tech Transparency Project highlighted that millions of downloads expose users to significant risks, prompting experts to recommend removing these apps. While Google and Apple declare adherence to compliance laws, the effectiveness of their app vetting processes remains under question. Experts underscore the unusual tactics China employs to gather personal information from foreign citizens, often obscured by legal pretexts.
"Millions of Americans have downloaded apps that secretly route their internet traffic through Chinese companies," TTP says. It last reported on this threat in April, and now says "Apple and Google app stores continue to offer private browsing apps that are surreptitiously owned by Chinese companies... six weeks after they were identified."
Top10VPNs Simon Migliano warns, "The risks are too great" to keep them on your phone, urging users to avoid Chinese-owned VPNs altogether.
Google states it is "committed to compliance with applicable sanctions and trade compliance laws" and will take action when violations are detected.
vpnMentor's Lisa Taylor notes, "China usually uses different methods to gain other countries' citizen's personal information, most of which are often covered behind a legal front."
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