The surge of RedNote, a China-owned app, alarms experts over potential security risks for American users
Washington: The sudden popularity of RedNote, a social media app from China, has raised eyebrows in the US. With TikTok facing a potential ban, over 700,000 users have flocked to RedNote, dubbing themselves “TikTok Refugees.” Most of the content is in Mandarin, which is a bit of a hurdle for English speakers.
But the language issue isn’t the main worry. Experts say RedNote has even fewer safety measures than TikTok. Nathan Leamer, a former FCC adviser, compared TikTok to a less harmful drink, saying RedNote is like a dangerous drug. He pointed out that while TikTok tries to appear credible, RedNote is more open about its ties to the Chinese government.
Adrianus Warmenhoven, a cybersecurity expert, warned that RedNote poses serious risks for American users. The app, known as Xiaohongshu in China, collects a lot of personal data, including location and browsing habits. Plus, it operates under Chinese laws, which could allow the government to access user data without the privacy protections Americans expect.
RedNote’s terms of service are in Mandarin, making it tough for English speakers to grasp how their data is handled. The app is popular for lifestyle content and online shopping, especially among women, who make up 79% of its user base.
Interestingly, RedNote was the most downloaded app on Apple’s App Store recently, even catching the company off guard. Some notable figures, like former Washington Post reporter Taylor Lorenz, have joined the platform, adding to its visibility.
As the app gains traction, it’s also facing scrutiny. Congress has given TikTok a deadline to divest control, and if it doesn’t, it could lead to a total ban. Experts believe that if RedNote continues to grow, it might face similar challenges under new laws aimed at foreign apps.
Rep. John Moolenaar has voiced concerns about RedNote, linking it to the historical context of the “Little Red Book” from China’s past. He emphasized the need for parents and creators to be aware of the risks posed by apps connected to the Chinese Communist Party.
With the looming TikTok ban, users are exploring alternatives, but the future of RedNote and similar apps remains uncertain. The situation is evolving, and it’s clear that the conversation around security and privacy in social media is far from over.
