The U.S. government has officially banned Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), citing national security concerns related to data privacy.
Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), one of the most popular mobile MOBA games globally, has been banned in the United States, following concerns over data privacy and security. The U.S. government’s decision to restrict MLBB, along with other games linked to Chinese companies, has led to its removal from app stores and suspension of services for American players.
Why Was MLBB Banned in the USA?
The U.S. government's action against MLBB stems from concerns regarding its parent company, Moonton, which is owned by ByteDance, the same firm behind TikTok. Officials argue that data collected through the game could pose potential threats to national security, citing risks of user data being accessed by foreign entities.
According to reports, MLBB and other ByteDance-affiliated games, such as Marvel Snap and Mobile Legends: Adventure, have been removed from Google Play Store and Apple App Store in the U.S. The government believes that these applications could collect sensitive user data and transmit it to foreign servers, prompting immediate action to protect users.
Here’s the complete list of ByteDance’s games that are banned in the US:
- Marvel Snap (Nuverse)
- Land of Empires: Immortal (Nuverse)
- Land of Empires: Dice Hero (Nuverse)
- Mission EVO (Nuverse)
- Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MOONTON Games)
- Mobile Legends: Adventure (MOONTON Games)
- Watcher of Realms (MOONTON Games)
- One Punch Man The Strongest (MOONTON Games)
Did MLBB just get banned in the USA? by u/dokababa in MobileLegendsGame
Impact on MLBB Players in the US
The ban means that U.S. players will no longer be able to:
- Download or update MLBB from official app stores.
- Access in-game purchases, as payment services have been suspended.
- Participate in global events, as the servers have been restricted for users based in the U.S.
Moonton has advised players to back up their account data through official channels to ensure they don’t lose progress in case the game returns in the future. Despite the ban, existing users who already have the app installed may still access offline features for now.
Official Response from Moonton
Following the ban, Moonton released an official statement addressing the issue:
"We are deeply saddened by the recent decision that restricts our U.S. players from accessing Mobile Legends: Bang Bang. We are actively working to resolve the matter and exploring legal options to restore our services."
The company has assured players that they are committed to maintaining data privacy and compliance with regulations. However, the timeline for a resolution remains uncertain.
Well, the ban on MLBB is not an isolated incident. Previously, other Chinese-owned applications, including TikTok and certain mobile games, have faced scrutiny in the U.S. market. With increasing concerns about cybersecurity and data privacy, regulatory bodies are expected to continue evaluating foreign apps operating within the country.
Esports organizations and MLBB content creators in the U.S. have expressed disappointment, as this ban directly impacts the competitive scene and fan engagement. Many have taken to social media, urging officials to reconsider their decision.
All in all, the ban on Mobile Legends: Bang Bang in the U.S. highlights the growing tension between global tech companies and government authorities over data security concerns. While the game remains inaccessible in the country, Moonton’s response and future regulatory actions will determine whether MLBB can make a comeback.
For now, U.S. fans are left hoping for a resolution that allows them to return to the world of Land of Dawn soon.