The FBI recently issued a warning about the potential risks associated with popular mobile platforms developed overseas. Americans’ personal data might be collected and stored abroad, even if they never directly download a foreign-made app.
Your data, such as names, email addresses, and phone numbers, could be accessed through someone else’s contact list. This happens when a friend or family member allows an app to access their device and contact information.
This warning follows years of concern about TikTok’s connections to China. The FBI indicates these concerns extend to numerous foreign-developed apps. These apps, particularly ones linked to China, may access large amounts of data once permissions are given. This includes address books with data on both users and non-users.
The FBI said, “Developer companies can store collected data, including names, email addresses, user IDs, physical addresses, and phone numbers.” Apps can continue to collect private data throughout the device, beyond just the app itself.
The FBI did not name specific companies but suggested this applies to widely used apps from Chinese firms. Apps such as CapCut, Temu, SHEIN, and Lemon8 are among those that might pose risks. Concerns include creating detailed profiles of Americans or aiding intelligence efforts if accessed under China’s security laws.
Operational apps in China must comply with the country’s national security laws, potentially granting government access to user data. U.S. officials caution against this, fearing data misuse.
The FBI also shared signs to watch for potential excessive data collection, like unusual battery drain or spikes in data usage. Unauthorized account activity may indicate such practices.
To protect yourself, the FBI advises limiting unnecessary data sharing and downloading apps only from official stores. Regularly checking permissions granted to apps is crucial. Apps from third-party sites may contain malware aimed at unauthorized data access.
The FBI’s latest alert suggests these risks affect a range of foreign-developed apps, potentially impacting millions of users.
The Chinese embassy has not yet commented on the matter.
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