Chinese firm tied to Uyghur rights abuses now training Tibet police on hacking techniques
Summary
A Chinese state-owned company, previously sanctioned for facilitating human rights abuses against Uyghurs, is now providing training on hacking techniques and digital forensics to police in Tibet. The company, SDIC Intelligence Xiamen Information Co Ltd (commonly known as Meiya Pico), secured a contract in 2023 to establish two laboratories for the Tibet Police College. These facilities will focus on offensive and defensive cyber techniques, alongside electronic evidence collection and analysis, amounting to around $1.32 million.
Meiya Pico has a controversial history due to its invasive digital forensics tools, such as a spyware app that allegedly gathers extensive data from user devices. Observers highlight concern that such training programmes will enable local police to enhance their surveillance capabilities, specifically targeting Tibetan dissidents. Moreover, the company’s involvement ties into broader patterns of oppression against ethnic minorities in China, underscored by the tightening surveillance tactics reported by Human Rights Watch.
Key Points
- Meiya Pico is training police in Tibet on hacking and digital forensics through newly established labs at the Tibet Police College.
- The company, previously sanctioned by the U.S., has been linked to human rights abuses against Uyghurs.
- The $1.32 million contract includes advanced surveillance equipment and training, enhancing police capacity for monitoring Tibetan communities.
- Meiya Pico has faced global scrutiny for its invasive products, including spyware for gathering personal data.
- A recent report highlighted increasing arrests of Tibetans for internet-related offences, demonstrating the intensifying surveillance in the region.
Why should I read this?
If you’re interested in the intersections of technology and human rights, this article dives into the alarming trend of surveillance and oppression against Tibetan communities. With the involvement of a controversial firm like Meiya Pico, it’s essential to stay informed about how technology is being used as a tool of state control. This is not just a Tibet issue—it’s a chilling indicator of broader global digital rights concerns. Save yourself the time, and understand this urgent topic through a compelling read!