Anti-fraud app from Chinese police sees soaring downloads amid complaints of forced installs
- The app was launched in March by the Ministry of Public Security and the national computer emergency response team
- Users also express concerns about the amount of personal data collected by the app, including real names and national ID numbers
A new anti-fraud mobile app made by the Chinese government has shot to the top of the country’s iOS App Store charts less than a month after launch, as users take to the review section and online forums to complain about being forced to install the app.
Named “National Anti-fraud Centre” and available on both Android and Apple devices, the app was developed by the Ministry of Public Security and the National Computer Network Emergency Response Technical Team (CNCERT).
Authorities say the app is designed to warn users of any calls, text messages or installed apps that are suspected of being associated with fraudulent activities.
Since its launch in mid-March, the app has quickly become the most downloaded free app in Apple’s App Store in China, having accumulated more than 7 million downloads by Monday, according to research analytics firm ASO 100.
However the app has received a rating of only 1.6 out of 5, with many reviewers complaining about being forced to install the app and expressing concerns about data privacy.
“Went to get a vaccine shot yesterday, but the staff there forced me to scan the QR code to download the app before they would let me go,” said one review on the iOS store that rated the app one star.
“I was stopped at the entrance to my apartment building by security and forced to download this app. He wouldn’t let me in if I did not,” wrote another user. “I’m starting to wonder whether it’s for fraud prevention or a fraud itself.”
In cities like Shenzhen, the southern tech hub bordering Hong Kong, banners promoting the anti-fraud app can be seen in subway stations and at residential compounds, with QR codes for people to scan and download the app.