Link: Sources: Apple and Google removed over six VPN apps, including Cloudflare's 1.1.1.1, from their Indian app stores after the government issued removal orders (Manish Singh/TechCrunch)

Cloudflare's popular VPN app, 1.1.1.1, is among several removed from app stores in India. This follows a directive from the Indian government.

The removal order was issued by the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs, impacting other VPN apps like Hide.me and PrivadoVPN. Apple and Google have complied, citing legal requirements.

These actions are part of India's 2022 regulations for VPNs, which demand extensive user data retention. Providers must keep records on their customers for five years.

Major VPN providers have expressed concerns about these privacy implications. Companies like NordVPN and ExpressVPN are reconsidering their operations in India.

Despite the withdrawal of their marketing efforts, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and SurfShark continue to serve Indian users. They aim to balance compliance with user privacy.

This development signifies a major shift in India's approach to digital privacy and internet governance. It's raising significant debates on user rights and national security.
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Yoooo, this is a quick note on a link that made me go, WTF? Find all past links here.