France has moved to block certain applications on official devices, signaling a firm stance on digital security and data protection for public servants. In a move that affects millions of state employees, the government has restricted access to popular consumer apps on work mobile phones, citing concerns about data privacy and national security.
The decision directly impacts the widely used video platform owned by ByteDance and has broader implications for other entertainment and streaming services that are viewed as risks to administrative networks. The policy targets applications that run on public devices, with the aim of reducing potential vectors for data leakage, unauthorized access, and cyber threats within government infrastructure.
According to officials familiar with the matter, the reforms were endorsed by the Ministry of Civil Service and are intended to strengthen the protection of sensitive information handled by civil servants. The changes were reported through AFP and reflect a sustained effort by Paris to ensure that government communications and data remain safeguarded while employees carry out their duties in a secure digital environment.