USA Banning Tiktok

Courtesy+of+Variety

Courtesy of Variety

Wesley Pascoe, Staff Writer

 Millions of users worldwide produce and share short films on the platform, the well-known social media app TikTok has recently swept the globe. While some users find TikTok a lighthearted and enjoyable way to socialize, others have voiced worries about the app’s possible hazards and unfavorable impacts, prompting several governments to explore outright banning it.

Many things cause tikTok-related worries. First off, there have been issues with the app’s data privacy. Because TikTok is owned by the Chinese business ByteDance, some people are concerned that the Chinese government might receive user data through the app. While TikTok has denied these claims, some governments have expressed concerns about the potential for espionage and security risks.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Concerns concerning the content shared on TikTok have also been raised, in addition to privacy issues. The app has come under fire for encouraging hazardous and inappropriate content, including risky challenges and improper conduct.TikTok sensors are also something they need to improve upon. On the app, there have also reportedly been instances of bullying and harassment where users were singled out because of their looks, race, or sexual orientation.

Many countries have thought of just straight out banning TikTok due to these worries. TikTok and numerous other Chinese apps were prohibited in India in 2020 for security reasons. With former president President Donald Trump issuing an executive order to outlaw TikTok in the US, we also thought about banning the app. But a federal judge later rejected this order, and the Biden administration has yet to make a decision on this issue. 

In the end, the choice to ban TikTok is complicated and may have both advantages and disadvantages. Despite the brief privacy and hazardous issues, a ban might not be the best action. Governments might cooperate with TikTok and other social media businesses to enhance privacy protections and content filtering while encouraging responsible app usage. Together, we can ensure that social networking sites like TikTok are engaging, safe, and secure for everyone.