Part 2/9:
Upon arriving in China, Neil experienced an unexpected communication blackout, as many popular apps and social media platforms that connect people globally were non-functional. This lack of connectivity reflected the reality of modern China, where the internet is heavily regulated. Utilizing a Virtual Private Network (VPN) allowed him to reconnect, albeit with difficulties.
This stark isolation raised pertinent questions about the perception of Western apps in China. As a society increasingly apprehensive about privacy, many Chinese residents share concerns regarding Western technologies as well. The conversation around security extends both ways, challenging preconceived notions about which side holds more surveillance power.