An Emirati messaging app, ToTok, has been removed by Google and Apple following claims it is being used for state spying.
ToTok is an app designed for VOIP and and definitely not to be confused with the Chinese TikTok a lip-sync, comedy, and talent videos application.
The New York Times has reported on allegations that ToTok is a spy tool for the United Arab Emirates government.
ToTok have blogged about what’s going on, stating they are, “temporarily unavailable”, and that they will be back on the app stores soon.
ToTok is a young app, being just a couple of months live, however it has already gathered much momentum in the Middle East, Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America, with millions of downloads already.
However, The New York Times has reported that the app’s publisher, Breej Holding Ltd, is affiliated with DarkMatter, and Abu Dhabi intelligence and hacking firm, currently under investigation by the FBI.
“While the existing ToTok users continue to enjoy our service without interruption, we would like to inform our new users that we are well engaged with Google and Apple to address the issue,” ToTok said in a blog.
The privacy policy of ToTok, doesn’t fill you with hope that this information isnt being used by the government as it states the information can be shared with, “law enforcement, officials, regulatory agencies and other lawful access requests”.
