Texas Governor Abbott Bans AI and Chinese Social Media Apps on Government Devices

Greg Abbott, the governor of Texas, recently made a bold move to safeguard the state’s technological infrastructure. He issued a proclamation that bans all government-issued devices from using artificial intelligence and social media apps tied to the Chinese Communist Party and the People’s Republic of China. Abbott stressed that Texas would not allow these entities to compromise its critical infrastructure through data-harvesting technologies.

Abbott’s directive requires Texas state agencies to exclude Chinese government-based AI and social media apps from their devices. He emphasized the importance of protecting state employees and agencies that deal with critical infrastructure, intellectual property, and personal data from espionage activities led by the Chinese Communist Party. The governor assured Texans that the state would continue to defend itself against foreign threats.

To further this mission, Abbott instructed the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Department of Information Resources to add six new technologies to the state’s prohibited list. This list restricts state employees and contractors from downloading or using these apps on both state-owned and personal devices used for work purposes. The apps include RedNote, DeepSeek, Webull, Tiger Brokers, Moomoo, and Lemon8.

This recent directive follows Abbott’s 2022 order, which banned the use of TikTok on any government-issued devices. In 2023, he also launched a statewide security plan to address vulnerabilities posed by TikTok and similar software on personal and state-issued devices. Thus, Abbott has been consistent in his efforts to secure Texas from foreign digital threats.

In 2023, the Texas Legislature took further action by passing a bill that Abbott signed into law. This legislation prevents state employees from downloading or using TikTok on government-issued devices. The move demonstrates Texas’ commitment to securing its digital landscape against potential threats from foreign adversaries.

Last year, the U.S. Congress passed the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act. This law made it illegal to distribute TikTok unless its U.S. operations were separated from its Chinese owner by January 19, 2025. Although the law faced challenges, the Supreme Court upheld it, and former President Donald Trump temporarily lifted the ban, indicating potential negotiations for U.S. companies to purchase TikTok.

Before TikTok ceased operations in the U.S., it began promoting alternative platforms like RedNote and Lemon8. RedNote, whose name is a nod to Mao Zedong’s “Little Red Book,” is owned by a PRC-based firm, Xingyin Information Technology. Lemon8, much like TikTok, belongs to ByteDance Limited, another PRC-based company.

Both RedNote and Lemon8 allow users to share photos and videos, collecting data in the process. Such data collection is reportedly used by PRC intelligence agencies. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security highlights that a 2017 PRC national intelligence law mandates all Chinese companies to collaborate with the country’s intelligence services.

Governor Abbott expressed concerns that RedNote and Lemon8 pose significant security risks to Texas. His order underscores the need to protect Texas from potential data breaches orchestrated by foreign governments. Abbott’s stance reflects a broader effort to shield the state from external digital threats.

Ahead of the legislative session, Abbott introduced four executive orders related to China, according to The Center Square. One order tasked DPS troopers with arresting individuals involved in CCP influence operations like “Operation Fox Hunt,” which aims to repatriate dissidents living in the U.S. back to China.

Another order required the Texas Division of Emergency Management and Public Utility Commission to prepare for potential threats against Texas’ critical infrastructure. This includes threats from hostile foreign governments or their proxies, such as the CCP and PRC. Abbott’s proactive measures are designed to ensure the safety and security of Texas’ infrastructure.

The third order directed state agencies to divest from investments originating in China. This move aims to reduce Texas’ financial ties with a nation perceived as a potential threat. It’s part of a broader strategy to protect the state’s economic interests from foreign influence.

The fourth order mandated all state agencies and higher education public institutions to fortify their systems. This involves safeguarding critical infrastructure, intellectual property, and personal information from access by hostile foreign nations, including the PRC and CCP. Abbott’s orders highlight his commitment to securing Texas against foreign threats.

These executive orders are part of a larger effort to protect Texas from foreign interference. Abbott’s actions showcase his dedication to preserving the state’s technological and economic integrity. His measures serve as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in the face of foreign digital threats.

Abbott’s stance reflects a broader geopolitical concern regarding foreign influence over domestic affairs. His actions emphasize the need to protect state interests from potential espionage and data breaches. By taking these steps, Abbott aims to ensure that Texas remains resilient in the face of global challenges.

The governor’s recent moves build upon a history of efforts to secure Texas from external threats. His commitment to protecting the state’s infrastructure and data is evident in his proactive approach. Abbott’s leadership continues to prioritize the safety and security of Texans in an increasingly digital world.

Texas’ response to potential foreign threats serves as a model for other states. Abbott’s decisive actions highlight the importance of addressing security vulnerabilities. By implementing these measures, Texas reinforces its stance against foreign interference in its affairs.

Governor Abbott’s proactive measures highlight the importance of protecting state interests in a globalized world. His efforts underscore the need for vigilance in safeguarding critical infrastructure and data. Texas’ approach emphasizes the state’s dedication to maintaining security and integrity amidst international challenges.

Abbott’s leadership demonstrates a commitment to addressing the complexities of modern security threats. His actions reflect an understanding of the evolving nature of global challenges. By prioritizing the security of Texas, Abbott ensures the state’s continued resilience in the face of foreign threats.

The governor’s recent actions are a testament to his dedication to protecting Texas. Abbott’s measures reflect a broader effort to safeguard the state’s technological and economic interests. His leadership continues to prioritize the safety and security of Texans in today’s interconnected world.

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Joe Messina

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