Taiwan Blocks Xiaohongshu Over Fraud Concerns
Taiwan has taken a significant step by implementing an immediate one-year ban on the Chinese social media platform Xiaohongshu, commonly known as Rednote. The decision comes amid growing concerns over the app’s role in online fraud and its failure to meet cybersecurity standards.
The Interior Ministry of Taiwan stated that Xiaohongshu is a “high-risk area for online shopping fraud.” According to the ministry, the platform has been linked to approximately 1,700 fraud cases, resulting in financial losses exceeding 247.7 million New Taiwan dollars ($7.9 million) since 2024. With over 3 million users on the island, the app has become a major concern for local authorities.
Cybersecurity Failures and Lack of Cooperation
One of the key reasons for the ban is the platform’s failure in cybersecurity tests conducted by the National Security Bureau. The Interior Ministry reported that Xiaohongshu failed all 15 indicators in these assessments. Additionally, the company has not responded to requests from Taiwanese authorities for corrective measures.
The lack of cooperation from the company has further complicated efforts by law enforcement agencies. Officials noted that they face “significant difficulties” in obtaining necessary information due to Taiwan’s limited jurisdiction over the company. This has led to stalled investigations and challenges in addressing the fraud cases linked to the platform.
Government Actions and Public Warnings
In response to the situation, the Interior Ministry instructed internet service providers to block access to Xiaohongshu. Deputy Minister Ma Shih-yuan emphasized this directive during a press conference. The ministry also urged international platforms such as Google to cease publishing advertisements for Xiaohongshu.
Authorities have advised the public not to download the app or to stop using it if already installed. This warning highlights the potential risks associated with the platform and aims to prevent further incidents of fraud.
Political Reactions and Controversies
The move has sparked political debate. Cheng Li-wun, chairwoman of the opposition Kuomintang party, criticized the ban, stating it “significantly restricts Internet freedom.” She described the action as “a starting-point for building the Great Wall of the Internet,” suggesting it is part of a broader effort by the ruling Democratic Progressive Party to control online content.
Xiaohongshu, Apple, and Google have not yet responded to requests for comments regarding the ban. However, the platform has faced previous restrictions in Taiwan. In 2022, the government banned Xiaohongshu from government devices, labeling it a “united front” for Chinese propaganda.
Earlier this year, Taiwan sent a letter to Xiaohongshu’s parent company, Xingyin Information Technology (Shanghai), requesting “concrete improvement measures.” Unfortunately, the company did not respond to these inquiries.
Global Reach and User Growth
Despite the controversy, Xiaohongshu remains widely used in China and has seen a surge in popularity in the U.S. earlier this year. This growth was partly driven by renewed interest following a proposed ban on its competitor, TikTok. As a result, the platform added roughly 700,000 new users, according to Reuters.
The ban on Xiaohongshu in Taiwan reflects broader concerns about the security and integrity of foreign platforms operating within the region. As digital spaces continue to evolve, the challenge of balancing online freedom with safety and security remains a critical issue for governments worldwide.