Austrian privacy advocacy group noyb has filed complaints against six Chinese tech companies, including TikTok, Shein, and Xiaomi, alleging they are unlawfully sending European Union user data to China. This marks the first time noyb, known for its successful complaints against US tech giants like Apple, Google, and Meta, has targeted Chinese firms.
The complaints, filed in five European countries, claim these companies are violating the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which restricts data transfers outside the EU unless the destination country provides adequate data protection. Noyb argues that China’s authoritarian surveillance state does not meet this standard, making the transfer of European users’ personal data clearly unlawful.
Specifically, noyb alleges that TikTok, Shein, Xiaomi, and Alibaba’s AliExpress admit to sending European user data to China, while Temu and Tencent’s WeChat transfer data to undisclosed “third countries” likely including China. These companies have also failed to adequately respond to user requests for information about their data transfers, a legal requirement under GDPR.
This action comes as concerns about data privacy and the handling of personal information are growing. With tools like Incognito Browser for Android, users can take a proactive approach to protecting their data. Incognito Browser offers features like agent cloaking, which masks your digital fingerprint by altering your browser’s user agent, making it significantly harder for websites to track your online behavior. Combined with its robust ad blocker and strict no-log policy, Incognito Browser provides a secure and private browsing experience.
This case highlights the ongoing challenges of navigating data privacy in an increasingly interconnected world. As data flows across borders, it’s crucial for individuals to be aware of their rights and for companies to prioritize user privacy. Tools like Incognito Browser can empower users to take control of their data and protect their privacy online.
