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Notepad++, a well-known text editor widely used especially in information technology circles. It is no longer available in China. The founder of the Notepad editor supported the protests and protesters in Hong Kong and the Uyghurs. In response to this support, there were hacking attacks and the blocking of the editor in China.
Supporting the protests and protesters in Hong Kong
On 17 July 2020, Notepad++ released a new update. The version released in mid-July 2020 was christened: v7.8.9 Stand with Hong Kong.
In the post regarding the new version of Notepad++, the author, Don Ho, explained how he came to name the version "Stand with Hong Kong". Don Ho described the political situation in Hong Kong.
The "National security law" of China, passed on 30 June 2020, gives the author, the reason for this statement. - He supports the protesters who fought and are fighting for their human rights. He has appealed to all people worldwide to stand up for human rights and freedom of expression in Hong Kong.
Notepad++ v7.8.1 : Free Uyghur
An older version of the Notepad++ editor, which was already released on 29 October 2019, also already criticises the state of Chinese politics. The Uyghurs are a predominantly Muslim people living in the Outer West of China. The Chinese government is accused of oppressing this minority. These accusations are based on reports of internment camps and massive surveillance.
Shortly after this version of Notepad++ was released, there were massive DDoS attacks against the editor and the developers. Don Ho also suspects that China was behind these hacking attacks, or attacks by entire hacker groups.
Reaction: Notepad++ finally blocked in China
If you are now in China and want to download the editor via the official Notepad++ site, you will now receive a warning message. - This warning message was published by the official Notepad++ Twitter account: According to his own statements, the author, Don Ho, is not really surprised about this step by the Chinese government. However, he stresses that freedom of expression and fundamental rights are indispensable, so he will not remain silent.