The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of the People's Republic of China (MIIT) published, on September 27, 2023, a notice of its fifth batch of notifications to apps on violations of users' rights in 2023.

Background to the investigation

The MIIT noted it had recently organized third-party testing agencies to inspect mobile internet apps, mini programs, and third-party software development kits (SDKs) in areas including public services, leisure, and entertainment, as well as hotels and restaurants in accordance with the Personal Information Protection Law, the Cybersecurity Law, the Telecommunications Regulations, and the Regulations on the Protection of Personal Information of Telecommunications and Internet Users.

Findings of the MIIT

Following its investigation, 23 apps and SDKs were found to infringe the rights and interests of users by requiring frequent and excessive permission, illegally collecting personal information, as well as deceiving and misleading users, and have been notified of the same.

Outcomes

In the aftermath of the investigation, the MIIT detailed that relevant apps and SDKs should complete the relevant rectification and implementation, noting that if rectification is not made within the time limit, it will arrange further action in accordance with laws and regulations.

You can read the press release, only available in Chinese, here.