Chinese authorities have recently directed domestic companies to stop using cybersecurity software from several United States and Israeli firms, citing national security concerns. The directive affects major companies such as VMware, Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet, and Check Point Software Technologies. Officials reportedly worry that these foreign-made products could collect sensitive data and transmit it overseas.

This move reflects Beijing's broader strategy to reduce reliance on Western technology amid ongoing trade and diplomatic tensions with the United States. China has been accelerating efforts to replace foreign software and hardware with domestic alternatives, driven by fears of potential hacking or surveillance. The affected companies and Chinese regulators have not commented on the matter.