Core Viewpoint - Chinese authorities have mandated domestic companies to cease the use of cybersecurity software from approximately a dozen U.S. and Israeli firms due to national security concerns [1][2]. Group 1: Companies Affected - The U.S. firms impacted by the ban include Broadcom-owned VMware, Palo Alto Networks, and Fortinet, while Check Point Software Technologies is among the Israeli companies affected [1]. - The exact number of Chinese companies that received the notice regarding the ban remains unclear [2]. Group 2: National Security Concerns - Chinese authorities are worried that the banned software could potentially collect and transmit confidential information to foreign entities [2]. - There is a growing apprehension in Beijing that Western technology could be vulnerable to hacking by foreign powers [4]. Group 3: Broader Context - The ban is part of China's broader strategy to replace Western technology with domestic alternatives amid escalating trade and diplomatic tensions with the U.S. [3]. - In addition to cybersecurity software, China is also focusing on replacing Western computer equipment and word processing software as part of its technological self-sufficiency efforts [4].

Investigations by China’s anti-trust watchdog are more than just tactics in a trade war with America. They are also becoming more useful in the country’s fight for tech supremacy https://t.co/Nx33yoCtYl ...