India's resolute decision to ban TikTok and numerous other Chinese apps has gained backing from various quarters, including officials in the United States. The latest advocate of this approach is Brendan Carr, Commissioner of the United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Carr expressed his support for India's strategy during an interaction with the Economic Times, asserting that other nations should follow India's lead in confronting insecure Chinese apps with complete bans.
Setting a Global Standard
Carr applauded India's proactive stance in dealing with the security risks posed by Chinese apps and suggested that other countries should swiftly adopt a similar approach. He emphasized the alarming trend of apps affiliated with the Communist Party of China clandestinely collecting data and accessing excessive user information, warranting immediate action to mitigate broader security threats.
FCC's Role and Authority
The Federal Communications Commission, an autonomous US government agency, serves as the central authority for shaping communications law and regulations. Carr's endorsement of India's approach underscores the gravity of the situation and its potential global ramifications.
India's Stringent Measures
In June 2020, India initiated the ban on TikTok, along with more than 50 other Chinese apps. This initial action was followed by additional bans on a multitude of Chinese applications. To date, over 100 Chinese apps have been prohibited in India.
CapCut: A New Concern
CapCut, another creation by ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, has raised eyebrows in the United States. The video editing app has prompted a class-action lawsuit filed in the US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. The suit alleges illegal profiteering from sensitive personal data, including biometric and geolocation information. The claim also highlights the peril of ByteDance's practices exposing user data to potential access by the Chinese government.
A Mention of India
Interestingly, the complaint references India as well, noting that concerns over data security led to the ban of CapCut and other China-based video editing apps in the country. This further highlights the global resonance of India's vigilant approach to safeguarding user data and privacy.
In a world grappling with digital security challenges, India's actions have not only protected its citizens but have also set a precedent for other nations to consider, with the United States now echoing its stance.
