'Security concerns' detected, but no ban on purchase of Apple or foreign phones, says China

Weeks after reports emerged that the Chinese government has banned iPhones for staff, the country's Foreign Ministry refuted the news, but also said it has detected security concerns associated with the Apple gadget.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning addressed this matter during a routine press briefing held in Beijing. "We notice that there have been some security incidents concerning Apple phones," without providing specific details on these incidents. It's worth noting that this statement was translated by the ministry from her original remarks made in Chinese," she said.

Reuters reported China has in recent weeks widened existing curbs on the use of iPhones by state employees, telling staff at some central government agencies to stop using their Apple mobiles at work, two sources familiar with the matter


"We hope all companies operating in China strictly abide by the data security law of China," said Mao Ning at a regular press briefing when asked.

Mao Ning clarified that China has not implemented any official laws or regulations that prohibit the purchase or usage of Apple iPhones or smartphones from foreign brands.

This announcement raises questions about the security of Apple's products in China and the potential implications for government and corporate users. As the situation unfolds, it will be important to monitor any further developments and responses from both Apple and Chinese authorities.