TikTok, the popular social media app known for its short-form video content, is facing increasing bans and restrictions in the United States at both the state and federal levels. Some lawmakers are even seeking to block the app in the country completely.
As reported by USA Today, the United States Senate enacted legislation this week prohibiting the use of the video platform on government equipment. Some state legislators have also restricted TikTok on state devices, and officials in the Senate and House have submitted legislation prohibiting TikTok from coast to coast.
US Bans on TikTok
The push to ban TikTok comes amid growing concerns about the app's data collection practices and its potential ties to the Chinese government. Concerns have been raised about the app's potential to spread misinformation and influence public opinion.
According to an investigation by software expert Felix Krause, TikTok can track every tap you make on its iOS app while you're surfing. This includes important information like passwords you type and links you visit.
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Such discoveries prompted regulators to prohibit the Chinese app from being available to some segments of the population. According to the same USA TODAY article, FBI Director Christopher Wray was worried earlier this month that Chinese officials could change the app's algorithm. He also said that China could use the app to get information about users.
In response to these concerns, several states have already implemented bans on TikTok for use by government employees, and the federal government is also considering similar restrictions. Additionally, the Trump administration issued an executive order in August 2020 prohibiting transactions with TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, citing national security concerns.
Growing Numbers
TikTok, the social video app known for its short-form content, is still gaining popularity in the United States. According to recent projections from Statista, the app has roughly 86.9 million users in the United States in 2021, with this figure expected to grow by around 8% year on year to reach 94 million users in 2022.
Despite its popularity with users, TikTok has faced mounting scrutiny and criticism in recent months. The company has repeatedly denied any ties to the Chinese government and has stated that it stores user data in the United States and Singapore. However, more than these reassurances have been needed to ease the concerns of some lawmakers and government officials.
As the debate over TikTok's future in the United States continues, it remains to be seen what state and federal authorities will take further actions.
TikTok is becoming increasingly popular among younger users, especially among influencers who have established careers by sharing videos promoting products targeted specifically at Generation Z.
According to Forbes, since bipartisan legislation wants to prohibit the popular Chinese social media app TikTok from operating in the United States, it will stop a lucrative route for influencers and their sponsors.
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