The request by the US government to ban the social media app WeChat in the United states has once again been denied.
WeChat is a multi-purpose messaging, social media and mobile payment app developed by Tencent. Although very popular in China, the app is also used as an important means of communication for a large group of Americans; the Chinese-Americans, as a means of contacting friends and family back home via chat or audio messages.
Last month, the previous request was blocked with the judge stating the right to communicate freely was more important in this case. Nevertheless, the United States Government remained fearful that data of US users could be accessed by the Chinese communist party. By presenting additional evidence, the Department of Justice hoped to achieve a ban this time round, however the judge once again denied the request as he did not agree with the argument the app would pose a threat to national security.
An appeal has been made against this decision with a verdict not expected till December. During this time, the app is still available for download in the US.