Taiwan Bans Xiaohongshu Over Fraud, Security Risks
- tech360.tv
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Taiwan's Interior Ministry will suspend access to the Chinese social media platform Xiaohongshu for one year, citing security risks and its alleged involvement in over 1,700 fraud cases since 2024. The Instagram-like app, known in English as Rednote, has been linked to over 1,700 alleged fraud cases since 2024.
The fraud cases on the app, which has 3 million users in Taiwan, have resulted in losses totalling TWD 247.68 million, or USD 7.91 million, since last year, with over 1,700 alleged fraud cases specifically identified since 2024. The Ministry stated the platform failed all 15 indicators in a government cybersecurity assessment.
The app's lack of compliance with Taiwan laws has hampered fraud investigations, creating a substantive legal vacuum. The Interior Ministry's statement was issued on behalf of Taiwan's National Police Agency.
An order for internet blocking and access restriction against the app will be issued for a provisional period of one year. Subsequent measures will depend on whether the company responds in good faith and complies with Taiwan's laws and regulations.
In October, Taiwan previously contacted Xiaohongshu's Shanghai-based parent, asking for concrete measures to ensure data safety, but the company has not responded. All platforms operating within Taiwan must comply with local legal frameworks by appointing legal representatives, and Xiaohongshu must not remain outside the jurisdiction of Taiwan's legal system.
The Ministry advised citizens not to download the software and those who have already downloaded it should stop using it. Instead, people should switch to other legal platforms that meet information security standards.
Taiwan has repeatedly warned people of the dangers of using Chinese apps, mostly due to the risk of disinformation coming from Beijing. Taiwan's democratically elected government rejects Beijing's territorial claims.
Taiwan's Interior Ministry will suspend Xiaohongshu access for one year due to security concerns.
The app is linked to over 1,700 alleged fraud cases since 2024, causing TWD 247.68 million (USD 7.91 million) in losses.
Xiaohongshu failed a government cybersecurity assessment and lacks compliance with Taiwanese laws.
Source: REUTERS
