Facing Its Final Countdown: Will Tiktok Survive The Ban Hammer?

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TikTok has been in the headlines for the past couple of days. Whether it would withstand the impending ban is yet to be known. Let's address the episode of the TikTok ban in the United States of America in this newsletter. The immensely popular social networking app TikTok has come under fire for issues with data security and foreign ownership. Here's the latest development on this story. Read on to know the important factors of the potential TikTok ban and understand its larger implications.

The National Security Debate

TikTok is owned by China, which raises concerns about national security. This is why there are worries about the platform's potential closure. Former US President Donald Trump has compared Facebook to TikTok, claiming that both are dangerous for the country. The main worry is that the Chinese government would be able to access user data, which would lead to worries about data exploitation and spying.

Understanding the Legislative Measures

TIKTOK SECURITY ACT: Representatives Raja Krishnamoorthi and Mike Gallagher put out the TikTok Security Act as a measure to try to allay these worries. The law would force TikTok to be sold to an American company, guaranteeing that user data from Americans stays in the United States and isn't sent back to China, where it may be viewed and perhaps exploited for political reasons. After gaining traction and clearing the House Energy and Commerce Committee, the bill is currently awaiting votes in the House and Senate before possibly becoming law.

COMPREHENSIVE DATA PRIVACY LAWS: Other legislative measures have been proposed to address national security issues associated with TikTok, in addition to the TikTok Security Act. Comprehensive data privacy laws that would cover TikTok and all other social media sites have been demanded by certain MPs. The idea is to improve data handling practices, accountability and openness, restrict foreign access to user data, and fortify data protection. Regulatory bodies like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) have also been looking into TikTok's data policies and penalising users who violate them. The steps are part of a wider endeavor to tackle the privacy and national security issues brought up by TikTok's Chinese ownership and its possible influence on user data.

Bone of Contention: Data Security & User Privacy

The argument over the TikTok ban has revolved around worries about user privacy and data security. Opponents contend that TikTok's Chinese ownership raises the possibility of the Chinese government gaining access to user data. Although a lot of TikTok users might not think much of data access, there are legitimate concerns about Chinese government agents using user data for influence or manipulation. Many Western countries have initiated the TikTok Ban from being used on official devices because of these issues. But there's more to the threats than just government employees; many consumers might be impacted.

In 2020, TikTok was accused of secretly accessing customers' iOS device clipboard data, which raised questions about unapproved data collecting. In addition, claims regarding TikTok's content moderation policies have surfaced, including accusations of bias and discrimination towards specific political perspectives. These elements have increased concerns that TikTok's Chinese ownership may allow for the exploitation of user information and content for political or public opinion manipulation. Because of these worries about data security and possible foreign meddling, a number of Western countries, including the US, Australia, and India, have moved to prohibit or limit the use of TikTok on government-owned devices. 

TikTok’s Defense

TikTok has continuously insisted that it does not share user data with the Chinese authorities and runs separately from its parent business, ByteDance. The business has taken steps to break away from its Chinese heritage, such as hiring a CEO with a U.S. base of operations and putting user data from Americans on American servers. TikTok has taken steps to address concerns about bias or censorship. For instance, it has introduced transparency measures like disclosing its content moderation standards and forming a content advisory committee. However, for legal and national security investigations, Chinese officials have access to user logs, messages, and comments on social media sites according to the country's cybersecurity legislation. This calls into doubt TikTok's autonomy from Chinese authorities.

TikTok has taken other moves to address worries about data security and privacy in addition to its attempts to disassociate itself from its Chinese heritage. The business has hired outside cybersecurity companies to evaluate and improve its security procedures, and it has had independent audits of its data privacy policies. Additionally, TikTok has added tools to give users more control over their privacy settings, such as the capacity to filter material, limit data sharing, and make accounts private. Furthermore, TikTok has demonstrated its dedication to openness by regularly publishing transparency reports that include information on demands made by the government for user data and content deletions.

Considering the Validity of the Case for TikTok Ban

There are valid reasons for considering a TikTok ban. Chinese data laws require sensitive information on Chinese individuals to be stored locally, much like proposed US legislation. This alignment strengthens the case for a ban. Concerns about foreign interference in US elections have also fueled the argument for a TikTok ban. President Biden has expressed support for the TikTok Security Act, suggesting a ban could happen soon.

Factors Influencing the Outcome: TikTok faces a potential ban due to rising tensions between the US and China over trade and technology restrictions. China's access to vital technology like semiconductors has been restricted by the United States tightening sanctions against it. Concerns about foreign interference in US elections have fueled arguments for the ban.

Impact on Users & Content Creators

A TikTok ban would greatly affect millions of users and content creators who rely on the platform for expression and community. It could disrupt livelihoods and careers, as many influencers have built their brands on the app.

Alternative Platforms & Rise of Competitors: A TikTok ban would create an opportunity for rival platforms like YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels to gain popularity. Users seeking new creative outlets may shift to these platforms, leading to increased engagement and content creation.

Obstacles & Uncertainties

Despite gaining traction, obstacles to a TikTok ban remain. Republican senators, supporting former President Trump's views, may resist the measure. Uncertainty looms over whether the law will reach President Biden's desk, given Republican control of the House.

Stay Informed with Cogent

The possibility of a ban continues to influence the course of this viral phenomenon, whether it materializes or not. The social media scene hangs its breath, wondering if TikTok can withstand the ban hammer or meet its fate, as users and content producers eagerly await the ultimate ruling. Watch this space for additional developments on this unfolding tale.

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