Cambodian messaging app faces backlash over privacy fears

Cambodia recently launched its messaging app, CoolApp, which is supported by former Prime Minister Hun Sen. He has emphasised that the app is crucial for national security, aiming to protect Cambodian information from foreign interference. Hun Sen’s endorsement of CoolApp aligns with his long-standing approach of maintaining tight control over the country’s communication channels, especially in the face of external influences. He compared the app to other national messaging services like China’s WeChat and Russia’s Telegram, indicating a desire for Cambodia to have a secure, homegrown platform.

However, the introduction of CoolApp has raised significant concerns among critics and opposition leaders. They argue that the app could be a tool for government surveillance, potentially used to monitor and suppress political discourse. Mu Sochua, an exiled opposition leader, warned that CoolApp represents a new method for mass surveillance and control of public discourse, reminiscent of practices seen in China. Another opposition figure, Sam Rainsy, called for a boycott of the app, suggesting that its true purpose is to strengthen the repressive tools available to the Cambodian regime. These concerns are amplified by Cambodia’s recent history of internet censorship, media blackouts, and persecution of government critics.

CoolApp’s founder and CEO, Lim Cheavutha, claims the app uses end-to-end encryption to ensure user privacy and has reached 150,000 downloads, with expectations to reach up to 1 million. However, these assurances do little to alleviate fears of government surveillance, given Cambodia’s history of using technology to control dissent.

The app’s launch comes amid broader security challenges in Cambodia, including online scams by Chinese gangs and close ties with China’s surveillance-heavy regime. The following situation highlights the ongoing tension between Cambodia’s national security and civil liberties.