China Bans US & Israeli Cybersecurity Software

Chinese authorities have reportedly instructed domestic companies to cease using cybersecurity software from about a dozen U.S. and Israeli technology firms. This directive, issued in recent days, stems from national security concerns, specifically the potential for the software to collect and transmit confidential information offshore. Among the U.S. companies named are Broadcom-owned VMware, Palo Alto Networks, and Fortinet, while Israeli firm Check Point Software Technologies is also mentioned.

The Cyberspace Administration of China and the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology have not yet responded to requests for comment. This ban emerges as the United States and China engage in a significant battle for technological supremacy, exacerbated by heightened trade and diplomatic tensions. Beijing has been actively promoting the adoption of domestic alternatives across various technology sectors.

Beyond high-profile efforts in semiconductors and artificial intelligence, China has also focused on replacing Western-made computer equipment and software. Chinese analysts have voiced growing apprehension that foreign-made technology could be vulnerable to hacking by foreign powers, further fueling the push for indigenous solutions.