Taiwan to Block Chinese App Xiaohongshu Amid Surge in Online Shopping Fraud
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Taiwan will temporarily restrict access to the popular Chinese social media platform Xiaohongshu – also known as RedNote – following a dramatic increase in reported online shopping fraud. The decision, announced Thursday by the island’s Criminal Investigation Bureau, impacts over three million users and underscores growing concerns about the platform’s security and potential for exploitation.
The move comes after authorities documented 1,706 fraud cases linked to Xiaohongshu since the beginning of 2024, resulting in financial losses exceeding NT$247 million (approximately US$7.9 million). According to a statement released by the bureau, an order will be issued to suspend and restrict internet access to the app for one year, citing its potential to become a “high-risk area for online shopping fraud.”
Cybersecurity Concerns Extend Beyond Fraud
The crackdown on Xiaohongshu isn’t solely driven by financial crimes. Taiwan’s digital affairs ministry issued a warning on Wednesday identifying five Chinese apps – including Xiaohongshu and the micro-blogging platform Weibo – as posing a significant cybersecurity risk to users. An analysis conducted by the ministry revealed these apps were actively “collecting sensitive information,” “accessing biometric features,” and “extracting system information.”
This revelation adds another layer of complexity to the situation, raising questions about data privacy and the potential for surveillance. A senior official stated that the government is taking a proactive stance to protect its citizens from potential exploitation.
Regulatory Scrutiny in China and Taiwan
Xiaohongshu’s troubles aren’t limited to Taiwan. In September, the Cyberspace Administration of China issued “warnings and strict punishment” to the platform’s leadership over its online content, criticizing posts deemed “trivial” and “negative.” This parallel regulatory pressure from both sides highlights the challenges faced by Chinese social media companies navigating differing political landscapes.
The Taiwanese government indicated that the duration of the block could be reevaluated based on Xiaohongshu’s response. “Further actions will be considered based on whether the company responds in good faith, actively cooperates with relevant laws and regulations, and ensures the safety of Taiwanese users,” the bureau’s statement read.
Geopolitical Undercurrents and Disinformation Risks
The decision to restrict Xiaohongshu also occurs against a backdrop of escalating geopolitical tensions between Taiwan and China. Beijing claims Taiwan as a renegade province and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve unification.
There are growing concerns within Taiwan that China is leveraging social media platforms to influence public opinion and spread disinformation. Analysts believe that platforms like Xiaohongshu could be used to subtly promote pro-China narratives and undermine Taiwan’s democratic institutions.
The move to block Xiaohongshu represents a firm stance by Taiwan to safeguard its digital security and protect its citizens from both financial fraud and potential political manipulation. The situation remains fluid, and the long-term impact on the platform’s presence in Taiwan remains to be seen.
