Qihoo 360 shuts down live-streaming video platform over privacy concerns at schools
Beijing-based internet security company admits failure to control online feeds of video that might have compromised privacy
Internet security company Qihoo 360 Technology has shut down its controversial live-streaming video platform following public concerns over privacy at schools.
Earlier this year, schools in China’s Henan province reportedly broadcast footage of classrooms and dormitories so that the children there can be monitored by their parents who work in other cities and provinces.
The local media reports raised concerns over whether it is safe to broadcast such content on young students as anyone can access the live-streaming platform Shuidi Zhibo, which is owned by Qihoo 360.
The Beijing-based company has hundreds of streaming channels from schools across China, including kindergartens.
Apart from its anti-virus software, Qihoo 360 sells web cameras that are used as surveillance tools at home and in shops. It started including a live-streaming feature in these cameras in 2015.
In response to the reports, Qihoo 360 said only teachers and parents were able to access those content with a password. It also offered guidelines on privacy to users of its web cameras and live-streaming platform.