Chinese Malware Apps are Spying On You

Listen and subscribe to the podcast

Join The American Idea’s Listener Email list – get news about upcoming episodes and a chance to offer questions for them, too!

The proliferation of Chinese technology poses significant risks to American infrastructure and security. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) collects vast amounts of data through its laws, which require companies to hand over information. This data is used for espionage and IP theft, and it can also be leveraged to influence public opinion and elections. China’s cyber capabilities are also a major concern, as they are now focusing on pre-positioning themselves on critical infrastructure. This poses a grave threat, as cyber-attacks can cause significant disruption and damage with little to no warning.

A primary goal of China is reunification with Taiwan, which they plan to achieve by 2049. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is a patient, egotistical adversary, similar to dictators throughout history. The US must address the threat posed by China holistically, across a broad spectrum of areas, including technology, security, and trade. The US should focus on strengthening its technology sector and restricting access to software that could compromise national security. Consumers need to be aware of the potential risks when using devices and apps that can collect and share data. Bipartisan consensus exists on the need for reforms and actions against Chinese threats, with some progress made in areas such as banning TikTok. The US is collaborating with allies like South Korea, Japan, and Australia, who are also concerned about China’s aggression. The focus should be on diversifying supply chains and supporting domestic industries to reduce vulnerabilities.

Sadly, seemingly harmless social media and commerce apps are part of China’s constellation of intelligence-gathering and agenda-shaping efforts. It’s worth the time for yourself, and our country, to understand the nature of these pervasive, subtle threats.