WeChat, owned by Tencent, is often dubbed the “everything app” for its wide range of functions, encompassing features similar to WhatsApp, Facebook, Amazon, and Tinder, all within a single platform. However, Western governments, including Canada, have expressed apprehensions about its potential to be used for espionage.
The BBC has reached out to Tencent for a statement but has not yet received a response.
WeChat is among the most widely used apps globally, especially in China, Southeast Asia, and among Chinese diaspora communities.
Canada’s ban has been put into effect immediately, although there is currently no concrete evidence of government data compromise through the app, as stated by Anita Anand, the president of Canada’s Treasury Board. She mentioned, “We are taking a risk-based approach to cyber security by removing access to these applications on government mobile devices.”
Canada has also taken measures against the Russia-based cyber-security firm Kaspersky, with users having the apps removed and future downloads blocked.
It’s worth noting that, despite the attention received by TikTok for potential security risks, many security experts consider WeChat to pose a more substantial threat. However, WeChat has received less focus in North America, as it is not as commonly used by government employees there.
In 2020, former US President Donald Trump attempted to ban the app via executive order, but it was halted by an injunction.
