The Government of India has today banned 54 Chinese apps. Most of these apps were banned previously but rebranded and re-launched in India with new names. Free Fire is also on this list but this game has already been removed from Play Store and App Store. Other apps include Beauty Camera: Sweet Selfie HD, Beauty Camera – Selfie Camera, Equalizer & Bass Booster, CamCard for SalesForce Ent, Isoland 2: Ashes of Time Lite, and Viva Video Editor.
The Union ministry of electronics and information technology received a request from the ministry of home affairs to block access to these 54 apps under the emergency provision envisaged in Section 69(A) of the IT Act.
These apps allegedly collect sensitive user data after obtaining various critical permissions.
“These collected real-time data are being misused and transmitted to servers located in a hostile country. This will enable them to compile huge personal data to mine, collate, analyze and profile by the elements who are hostile to the sovereignty and integrity of India and for activities detrimental to national security,” the IT ministry said in a statement.
Here’s the list of apps banned today.