Chinese Officials Banned from Using iPhones or Other Foreign-Made Equipment: WSJ

The Chinese authorities have banned civil servants from using iPhones or other foreign-made technology for work. The Wall Street Journal reported this, citing its sources, as noted by TASS.

According to the publication, the Chinese leadership has issued orders not only to refrain from using such devices but also to prevent bringing them into the office. This directive has been communicated through work chat groups, as well as via announcements and special meetings in relevant institutions and departments.

Such measures against civil servants in China have been applied on a smaller scale in the past; however, the current restrictions will encompass a broader range of officials and departments. The report notes that China has long imposed sanctions on devices produced by foreign manufacturers of computer equipment and software.

As the newspaper points out, the current restrictions are related to the escalating confrontation between China and the United States, which has compelled both sides to enhance state control over data security and the digital activities of government departments. This move is reportedly part of the Chinese authorities' efforts to limit the leakage of confidential information abroad and reduce the country's reliance on foreign technology.