Baidu is now suing major Chinese security provider, 360, for unfair competition alleging a version of 360's security software flags both Baidu Toolbar and Baidu Address Bar as malware.

Thus, Baidu said, 360 tells users the plugins must be removed. The suit, which was filed late last month, demands that 360 cease with its unfair practices. Baidu is also suing the company for 10 million renminbi (US$1.4 million) and is requesting that 360 issue public apologies on its websites as well as on several major news sites in China.

Though Baidu declined to comment, it has  affirmed that the suit was accepted by Beijing Second Intermediate People's Court.

360 responded to Baidu's claims in a statement on Friday. The software company highlighted how search engines are sites for "swindling" and that they provide avenues for online threats to reach users. According to 360’s statement, in providing search results, Baidu has made no obligation toward protecting its users as it is not a security company."

This is not the first time that 360 has faced a lawsuit for unfair competition. In the past, it has also seen trouble with Yahoo China and other domestic companies.