This was reported by Ukrinform with reference to NOS.

“TikTok has already been banned for central government officials, but it’s not the only app banned from being on business phones. Also, the AliExpress online store’s app and WeChat chat app,” the message reads.

It is stated that there are a total of 10 programs on the black list. In addition to the four applications from China, there are also applications from Russia, Iran and North Korea, which are spying according to the Dutch intelligence service (AIVD).

The application of the Russian social network VKontakte and the video editing program CapCut are also blocked.

In the Netherlands, it is suspected that apps could be used to gain access to users’ personal data, in particular.

The Dutch Military Intelligence and Security Service (MIVD) states that Dutch companies and universities are targets of espionage by China due to their high technology, as reported by Ukrinform.

The report said that China has set up private fake spy companies and is also trying to circumvent export restrictions, including by setting up front companies.

The Dutch Intelligence Service (AIVD) named China the biggest threat to the country’s economic security in its 2022 annual report.

Photo: “Mikolas Kokovlis”