In contemporary times, it has become commonplace for applications to request user permission to access their geographical location. Some apps seek access only during use, while others request continuous access.
China has recently taken a stringent approach towards applications seeking Global Positioning System (GPS) access. Concerned about the potential leakage of sensitive information to foreign servers, the Chinese government perceives the risk of misuse for activities such as profiling, tracking, surveillance, and causing unnecessary battery drain.
In an announcement on a recent Sunday, the nation led by Xi Jinping declared a crackdown on messaging, gaming, dating, and entertainment-related apps, restricting their access to GPS data to prevent potential misuse by external adversaries.
As the technological rivalry between the United States and China intensifies each year, China is unwilling to take any chances with information leaks. Consequently, the nation has tasked its security ministry with formulating measures and recommendations to enhance vigilance against intelligence theft.
Henceforth, mobile apps operating in China are mandated to adhere to strict rules regarding access to Global Positioning System location data. This directive applies not only to domestic applications but also extends to foreign apps like WhatsApp used within the Chinese federation.
It’s noteworthy that China, under the leadership of Xi Jinping, appears forward-thinking in various domains, including software, chemicals, viruses, and electronics. Simultaneously, the country is proactively fortifying its digital infrastructure, addressing vulnerabilities related to data, security, and other concerns. The initial step in this strategic move involves blocking access to GPS location data.
