New Delhi: The government has decided to ban 54 additional apps of Chinese origin highlighting that these apps pose a ‘threat to India’s security’ as the border tension continues.
One of the biggest names in this list of banned games is ‘Garena Free Fire- Illuminate’. This game is a popular alternative to PUBG Mobile.
In a statement, the Electronics and Information Technology Ministry said the 54 apps misused and transmitted real-time data to servers located in a hostile country.
‘This will enable them to compile huge personal data to mine, collate, analyse and profile by the elements who are hostile to the sovereignty and integrity of India and for activities detrimental to national security.’
It added a request for the blocking of apps was received from the Home Ministry under an emergency provision in the Information Technology Act.
Some of the apps on the list include Beauty Camera – Selfie Camera, Isoland 2: Ashes of Time Lite, Tencent Xriver, Beauty Camera: Sweet Selfie HD, CamCard for SalesForce Ent, Onmyoji Chess, Equalizer & Bass Booster, Dual Space Lite, Viva Video Editor, AppLock and Onmyoji Arena.
In June last year, India banned 59 Chinese mobile applications including TikTok, WeChat, and Helo. Majority of apps banned in the 29 June order were red-flagged by intelligence agencies over concerns that they were collecting user data.