WeChat warns overseas users over data being stored in China

Chinese social media platform WeChat is warning users outside China that their data will be stored on servers inside the country.

A number of overseas WeChat users received a warning that personal data including likes, comments, browsing and search history, content uploads, etc., will be transmitted to China. The notification also reminds users that their behaviour while using the app is subject to the app’s licensing agreement and privacy policy.

A YouTuber living in France who gave only the pseudonym Miss Crook said she was shocked to receive a French translation of the same message. She said the move would likely affect large numbers of Chinese nationals and emigres living overseas.

WeChat last year said that it had separated its data storage facilities for domestic and international users, asking overseas users to re-sign the terms and conditions to keep using the app, which many people rely on to send money to people in China, make purchases in Chinese yuan, and stay in touch with friends and family.