TikTok Ban! US Government Battle For Data Privacy

  • By Farrukh Mushtaq

    Farrukh Mushtaq

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    Farrukh Mushtaq, a digital marketer at PureSquare, possesses a keen interest in cybersecurity and enjoys writing about it. With several years of experience in the digital marketing industry, he brings expertise and passion to his work.

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  • 16 January 2025
  • 8 mins read

Table of Content

Table of Contents

TikTok's future in the US hangs in mid-air till this Sunday, January 19th, where it could be the end of the line for the app unless its Chinese owners agree to a forced sale to an American businessman or investor. The Congress is citing concerns about user data falling into the hands of the Chinese Communist government, and they passed a law in April last year demanding ByteDance, TikTok's parent company, to sell the app to an American entity within nine months.

Why Did America Ban TikTok?

You've probably heard that countries, like the UK, and those in Europe, are freaking out about TikTok stealing their citizen’s data. They're banning TikTok from government devices because the app erodes online privacy and security of every user. Some most concerning reasons for the ban are:

  1. Mind Control Algorithmic

TikTok's algorithm is super powerful because it is specifically designed to keep you hooked, but there's a fear it could be used to spread fake news, push harmful content, bigotry, and manipulate what you see and think. 

  1. National Security 

Governments are worried TikTok could be used to spy on them or even influence US Presidential Elections. The thought of data breaches or the app being used for privacy breach is a major threat, and not something the US government hides under the rug. 

  1. Unnecessary Data Collection

TikTok collects extensive user data, including personal information, browsing history, and potentially sensitive biometric data such as facial scans. This raises concerns about the scope and security of the data collected and who has access to it.

TikTok will be banned in the US on 19 January 2025.
Access TikTok in the USA in just $0.99.

What Happens if TikTok is Banned?

A US ban on TikTok would not immediately shut down the app for existing users. However, it would gradually deteriorate, becoming unstable, insecure, and eventually unusable.

  1. TikTok would immediately disappear from the official app stores in the US (App Store and Google Play Store).
  2. People who already have the app installed would still be able to use it for a while.
  3. Crucial updates, including security patches, would no longer be available. 
  4. The app can become increasingly unstable and prone to crashes and lack of security updates (patches) would leave TikTokers vulnerable to exploits and data breaches.  
  1. The app would eventually become incompatible with newer operating system versions (iOS and Android).
  2. TikTok relies on servers located outside the US. If these servers are blocked, you will experience slower performance.  
  3. The US government might also block access to TikTok's website on its servers, similar to how China blocks foreign services.

Is My Data Safe on TikTok?

TikTok's data security practices have been a subject of scrutiny and debate for the past few years now. While the platform uses various security measures to protect your data, concerns remain regarding the sharing of information with the Chinese government. You must take proactive steps when it comes to your privacy. 

  • Customize your privacy settings to control the type of data TikTok collects and shares.
  • Be mindful of the permissions you grant to TikTok and avoid sharing sensitive information. 
  • Stay updated on TikTok's data security practices, and relevant news or controversies.
  • Always use reliable privacy management applications, such as PurePrivacy to manage your data efficiently even on social media websites.

Can I Access TikTok in the US without Compromising Privacy?

Yes, you can but be cautious! Avoid sideloading the TikTok app if you didn't previously have it. Sideloading can expose you to malicious software and compromise your data security. Refrain from jailbreaking your device as it can void your warranty.

If you want to access TikTok even when it is banned, try changing your Play Store region through PureVPN to a country where TikTok is accessible. Further, you can change the region of your PlayStore from another device at home to access the TikTok app from a region where it's available.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Can I use TikTok in the US after the ban?

    Plus

    Yes. If a platform is banned in any region due to regulatory or privacy concerns, it can be accessed through a VPN. PureVPN, with its undoubted privacy & security reputation, bypasses restrictions and allows you to access TikTok in the US or other countries without hassle.

  • What day is TikTok shutting down?

    Plus

    The TikTok ban is expected on Sunday, January 19 in the US. The ban will not stop you from using TikTok immediately, you can still access some of the features or backup your data if you want.

  • Is TikTok leaking information?

    Plus

    Reports indicate that TikTok employees have previously leaked user data. While the extent of this issue is still debatable, there are inherent privacy risks. TikTok collects user data, including IP addresses, browsing history, and device information, which can target you with personalized ads.

  • Who will replace TikTok?

    Plus

    Many companies have made TikTok app clones recently but didn’t get the market share to compete with the main app. RedNote, which is also a Chinese app, is seen to be the most downloaded app after the news of the TikTok ban has spread in the US like wildfire.

  • What’s the TikTok Future?

    Plus

    The US government's scrutiny of TikTok has cast a long shadow! While a ban may not immediately stop its use, it would impact its accessibility and long-term viability in the US market.

    Reports suggest former Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and billionaire businessman Frank McCourt are exploring acquisition possibilities. However, Chinese officials are reportedly favoring a different outcome: a takeover by Elon Musk, which is just a rumor.