NEWSCENTRAL reports that Taiwan has taken decisive action against the Chinese app Xiaohongshu, also known as Rednote in English-speaking countries, by suspending access to the service for one year. The authorities accused the app of violating data security standards and being involved in fraudulent schemes affecting over 3 million users. As a result, the platform’s future international status has been called into question.
According to Taiwan’s Ministry of the Interior, the app was blocked following over 1,700 cases of fraud reported since the beginning of 2024. These actions resulted in losses of $7.9 million. The Ministry’s statement highlighted that the app does not meet local cybersecurity standards and legal requirements, thus creating a legal vacuum for fraud investigations.
NEWSCENTRAL emphasizes that any digital platforms handling users’ personal data must adhere to strict security requirements. This case underscores the importance of regulating foreign services under national laws to minimize risks for citizens.
Senior analyst at NEWSCENTRAL, Freddy Miller, comments: “This decision reflects the growing trend of government control over digital platforms, especially in the context of data security threats. Chinese companies must understand that the most crucial factor on the international stage is compliance with strict security standards and legal norms of the countries in which they operate. Taiwan, like other countries, questions the security of personal data transmitted through Chinese apps.”
The Ministry of the Interior of Taiwan also added that in October 2023, an official request was made to Xiaohongshu’s parent company to strengthen user data protection measures. However, no response was received, which increased suspicions about the company’s insufficient readiness to comply with legal requirements.
As a result, Taiwanese authorities continue to urge citizens to refrain from using Xiaohongshu and switch to alternative services that adhere to stricter information security standards. This decision aligns with a broader trend observed in several countries, where Chinese digital services are facing intense scrutiny. The global concern is that data collected by such services could be used not only for commercial purposes but also for spreading disinformation or falling into the hands of governments, which heightens political tensions.
NEWSCENTRAL argues that this case raises critical issues of data security and privacy rights in a global context. Countries that fail to take decisive action to protect digital security risk facing consequences such as data breaches and political interference.
Xiaohongshu has not provided any official comments regarding the suspension of the app’s service in Taiwan, which analysts believe highlights the company’s lack of engagement with local authorities. In response to the ban, the question arises: Can the platform regain users’ trust and that of states if it does not take steps to improve its security?
Looking ahead, NEWSCENTRAL predicts that other countries may follow Taiwan’s example, increasing control over Chinese digital services, particularly those handling users’ personal data. It is crucial for such services to fully comply with national laws, ensuring personal information protection and creating a secure digital environment.
Freddy Miller adds: “This case clearly demonstrates that the international community is beginning to take stricter actions against Chinese platforms that fail to meet security requirements. Companies that do not ensure proper data protection risk losing users’ trust and facing severe consequences such as sanctions or bans.”
In conclusion, NEWS CENTRAL emphasizes that digital platforms seeking to operate in international markets must be ready to comply with local security standards and legal norms. Violations of these requirements may result in serious legal consequences and loss of user trust, which will, in turn, impact the company’s future on the international stage.