Texas.gov Banned Software and Developers

1

Trying to understnd TikTok hearings and the progress of the RISTRICT Act, (Patriot Act 2.0) I am grateful to https://www.eff.org

Looking into why some apps are prohibited on government devices in the USA I could not find a list of Software, Applications, and Developers. I came across a list from Texas. I am shocked to see apps with 241 permissions and 12 trackers.

Anyone concerned about their privacy would not use these apps. I can’t imagine why a state issued device would need any of these apps. Why were they allowed to be used in the first place. Why wouldn’t there be a conversation. “This is your “company phone” don’t install crap on it, tax payers would get pissed”.

The list from Texas does not provide links to the apps or reasons specifically why they are banned.

Be careful checking out any website, check out the website with BlackLight . Texas is OK with using Google to track you.

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Prohibited Software/Applications/Developers

Prohibited Hardware/Equipment/Manufacturers

  • Dahua Technology Company
  • Huawei Technologies Company
  • Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company
  • Hytera Communications Corporation
  • SZ DJI Technology Company
  • ZTE Corporation
  • Any subsidiary or affiliate of an entity listed above.

Last updated: 1/23/2023

2 Likes
2

Kinda suprised that they don’t just lock down devices and give them to their employees, it’s pretty common to disable app installation on work devices.

3

Locking down the phones would make sense. Banning these apps seem more important than implicating basic security.
In scenarios where “work” phones are locked down. You will see people carrying two phones, their personal phone breaking this security.
I have worked in locations where cameras are not allowed, and cell phones are supposed to be left with your personal items. Of course these personal cell phones are in peoples pockets and whipped out at any moment.

4

I think that, just like always, it’s best to practice security and privacy hygiene by having as few apps on your devices as humanly possible, and make sure the apps you install come from reputable sources. It’s also best to give apps the most necessary permissions only. If you have a calculator app that requires all file access, that should be a major red flag.

Installing apps notorious for harvesting user data, such as TikTok, is also a very bad idea. It’s also best to use FOSS software whenever and wherever possible. For example, replace SHAREit with Local send: LocalSend | F-Droid - Free and Open Source Android App Repository

You can easily examine the number of trackers and permissions associated with different apps on exodus: Exodus Privacy

5

That’s a shared opinion here and thanks for sharing the links. On an individual level I can understand using what ever app you want if your not hurting others get after it.
On a company phone, paid for by tax payers, I do not understand why there even needs to be a banned list.
Why do we need to tell the people governing over us not to use resources we paid for their enjoyment.
Like, don’t watch porn on your work phone…

6

I understand your point, but I think it’s necessary because if there isn’t a protocol telling employees what they shouldn’t do and how to use work assets, you can’t discipline employees who violate it.

7

I follow you, with my employment the discipline is under contract rules, but we still have common sense rules.