Survey on Chinese Shopping App, Pinduoduo’s, Alleged Malware

In the tech world, it’s no secret that malware is a significant concern. Malicious software can infiltrate your device and steal your data, damage your device, or use your device for illicit purposes. Recently, the popular Chinese e-commerce platform—Pinduoduo—made headlines for containing malware that compromised its users’ privacy.

What is Pinduoduo?

Pinduoduo is a fast-growing e-commerce app that has taken China by storm. It utilizes technology to promote and enable the traditional agriculture industry. It has developed a platform that connects farmers and consumers directly. The app’s popularity grew rapidly, reaching over 700 million users in just five years. However, the app’s recent suspension from Google Play Store has raised concerns about its practices.

Pinduoduo App Suspended Over Malware: User Privacy and Security at Risk

According to CNN, experts have identified the presence of malware in Pinduoduo, which tracks user activity and send the data back to the app’s servers. The malware is a form of click fraud, where Pinduoduo allegedly made fraudulent clicks on competitors’ ads to boost its sales and numbers artificially.

Therefore, Google has suspended Pinduoduo from its Play Store after finding malware in versions of the app. Based on sources, a Google spokesperson said:

We have suspended the Play version of the app for security concerns while we continue our investigation.

The use of malware is a violation of users’ trust and undermines the integrity of the entire e-commerce industry. It’s not just about the privacy of user data; it’s about the trust users place in the apps they use. With more and more users opting for online shopping, e-commerce platforms are responsible for prioritizing user security and privacy.

Hence, Real Research, an online survey app, launched a survey on Chinese shopping app, Pinduoduo’s, alleged malware to gauge public perception and awareness of the risks associated with Pinduoudo. Hurry and answer the survey on malware found on the popular Chinese shopping app, Pinduoduo on the Real Research app from April 10, 2023, and win 60 TNCs as a reward.