After receiving some backlash from security experts for its purported "sketchy code," anime makeover app Meitu finally responded to allegations, saying the data collection code was included because its headquarter is based in China where tracking services from foreign companies like the Apple App Store and Google Play are blocked.

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"To get around this, Meitu employs a combination of third-party and in-house data tracking systems to make sure the user data tracked is consistent," a spokesperson from Meitu told CNET.

"Furthermore, the data collected is sent securely, using multiplayer encryption to servers equipped with advanced firewall, IDS and IPS protection to block external attacks."

For the iOS platform, Meitu said it only asks permission within the scope of regulations implemented by Apple to its developers. It also explained that the jailbreak check is a requirement from the software development kit itself, which is from China's WeChat.

Carrier information is also requested for its geo-based features, ad placements, and protection against illicit API use. Meanwhile, as for the sensitive MAC addresses and IMEI numbers, Meitu said these are mixed with a unique ID and are only used for internal tracking.

As for Android users, Meitu said that it needed to utilize a third-party notification service called Geitu that requires the app to run start since Google Play services, as well as its push notifications and tracking services, do not work in China. It further stressed that it would be impossible to release an international edition if Google Play services were employed.

The statement comes after security experts warned users to think before jumping on the Meitu bandwagon, as the app is reportedly obtaining more data than what is necessarily required for a conventional photo app.

Meitu was developed by a start-up developer and smartphone maker that shares the app's same name. It recently raised a staggering $629 million on its latest IPO in Hong Kong, and its market valuation stands at $4.6 billion.