Surveillance fears after Clubhouse app takes Saudi by storm


Despite the risks, many Saudis are participating in free-wheeling discussions on Clubhouse that capture the zeitgeist of a largely young population. — AP

RIYADH: Political reform, racism, transgender rights – the audio app Clubhouse has unleashed unbridled debates about topics deemed dangerously sensitive in Saudi Arabia, but surveillance fears have spooked users in the authoritarian state.

Banned by the censors in China, the invitation-only app is gaining traction in parts of the Gulf, sparking bold conversations in countries known to curb free speech.

The Star Christmas Special Promo: Save 35% OFF Yearly. T&C applies.

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.02/month

Billed as RM 96.20 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Tech News

Sam Altman’s cringe AI thirst trap says a lot about the future of OpenAI
Italy regulator fines Apple $115 million for alleged App Store privacy violations
The rise of deepfake cyberbullying poses a growing problem for schools
As US battles China on AI, some companies choose Chinese
Boys at her school shared AI-generated, nude images of her. After a fight, she was the one expelled
Banks in M'sia urge customers to update browsers and mobile OS for enhanced security
Waymos froze, blocked traffic during San Francisco power outage
Cancer stole her voice. She used AI, curse words and kids’ books to get it back
Once a gamble in the desert, electric grid batteries are everywhere
How a cryptocurrency helps criminals launder money and evade sanctions

Others Also Read