Ever since internet users found out that internet providers invade their online privacy, they moved on to Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN ensures online security. The need for VPN led to huge profits globally until the Chinese government banned VPN in China. The Chinese government could not spy on its citizens leading to a ban on VPN.

VPN companies were caught off guard when their app was deleted from Apple Stores. ExpressVPN was the first company to receive the news from Apple. No explanations were offered; the Chinese government ‘sited illegal content’. Apple was not willing to take liability- instead, they asked ExpressVPN to take accountability for their actions by abiding with the Chinese law. StarVPN also tweeted a copy of the letter they received from Apple. China, Russia, Iran and Syria are some of the most restrictive internet users.

The final blow came when Skype was shut down. Users could not make calls or send messages. There were reports that Skype was missing from Apple store but was available in other brands. Just like ExpressVPN, Microsoft ‘did not comply with Chinese law.’

Effects of China censorship on internet development.

Chinese people have no control over their private online data. They are forced to use IPS so that the government can spy on them. Interestingly, only Apple was affected by this ban. Other user brands remain connected to open internet. China told Apple that unlike other brands, they did not receive permission to operate VPNs. I suppose that explains ‘illegal content.’

Freedom of speech is part of universal human rights. Banning of VPN limits this freedom because Chinese people are not allowed to speak against the government privately. Chinese consumers felt that Apple was assisting the Chinese government to limit their freedom of speech.

Apart from speaking against the government, Chinese people are not allowed to access messaging apps. WhatsApp and WeChat crashed soon after the ban.

Banning VPN also affects Chinese tourism sector. Tourists are not allowed to use VPN either. The ban was extended to the hospitality sector as hotels no longer offer VPN services. International VPN producers were forced out of business after enforcing the ban.

Removing VPN apps damaged Apple’s PR. Apple users felt betrayed. The move also dived American users as well. They feel that Apple should not roll over when an injustice is committed.

Even though VPN is banned in China, VPN companies have market in the rest of Asia. All neighboring countries continue to enjoy services uninterrupted. Apple remains hopeful they will restore their business in China. Recently, they introduced Isabel Ge Mahe to the Chinese team as a managing director. Her main responsibility is to create a better relationship between America and China under the new cyber security laws.

Apple bows to pressure to fight back

The final blow came when Skype was shut down. Users could not make calls or send messages. There were reports that Skype was missing from Apple store but was available in other brands. Just like ExpressVPN, Microsoft ‘did not comply with Chinese law.’

In 2 years, Apple had removed over 100 Apps affecting international business negatively. Two companies went farther by suing Apple for discrimination. The lawsuit got the attention of the government who asked Apple to ‘push back’ and protect their brand. In response, Apple said they would open a data center that complied with Chinese internet laws. Apple was looking forward to:

• Compliance to cyber security rules in China.
• Promoting freedom of speech and expression.
• Creating a strong relationship between China and US.
• Re-assuring other app developers in China.