FBI Warns of Data Risks in Chinese Mobile Apps

The Federal Bureau of Investigation issued a public service announcement on March 31, warning U.S. users about data security risks posed by popular mobile applications developed by foreign companies, particularly those based in China. The alert, released through the agency's Internet Crime Complaint Center, highlighted how such apps could expose sensitive personal information to potential government access abroad.

Many of the most downloaded and top-grossing apps available on platforms like Google Play and Apple's App Store are maintained by companies with ties to China, the FBI stated. These include short-form video services, video editors, shopping platforms, and communication tools. Although the bureau did not name specific apps, examples cited in the announcement align with widely used ones such as TikTok and CapCut, owned by Beijing-based ByteDance; shopping apps Temu and Shein; and AI tools like DeepSeek. Apps with digital infrastructure in China fall under the country's national security laws, which can compel companies to share user data with authorities, the FBI explained.

Once users grant permissions during download, these apps can collect information persistently...