Why Countries Are Trying to Ban TikTok?

In today's digitally-driven world, TikTok has become a major player in the app market, captivating millions of users and keeping them glued to their screens. However, the app's rapid rise to popularity has raised concerns about national security, prompting several countries to consider banning it. Let's explore why countries are taking such measures.

TikTok, launched in 2017, quickly gained traction with its short-form content format, captivating over 150 million Americans. This staggering success can be attributed, in part, to the circumstances surrounding the 2020 pandemic, which led to over 3 billion downloads in just three years. Interestingly, TikTok owes some of its triumph to its competitors.

TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, originated in China in 2012 and initially found success with the news app called "Headlines." This app utilized a personalized algorithm to deliver tailored news content to users in real time, based on their interests. Recognizing the potential of this algorithm, ByteDance launched Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, in 2016. Douyin's concept mirrored that of TikTok, with a stronger focus on Chinese language options and content highlighting the virtues of the Chinese government.

While most social media platforms rely on social connections and subscriptions, TikTok revolves around the individual user. By employing a similar algorithm to their news app, ByteDance created a highly nuanced curation of content based on a myriad of variables, enabling users to receive a personalized stream of videos aligned with their unique interests. TikTok's addictive layout and presentation, combined with its carefully curated feedback loop, generate an experience that rivals the addictive nature of slot machines.

Surprisingly, TikTok owes a substantial portion of its success to its competitors. ByteDance employed a cunning marketing strategy that involved poaching top employees and influencers from Facebook and YouTube. Furthermore, they spent billions of dollars on advertisements, running them on Facebook and YouTube to drive traffic directly to TikTok. This audacious move paid off as Facebook and YouTube underestimated TikTok's ability to penetrate the market, eventually resulting in them emulating TikTok's features and format. Despite their role in promoting TikTok's rise, they can't be upset about it since they profited from TikTok's advertising expenditures.

ByteDance recognized that to achieve success, they needed both quality content and a large user base. To attract content creators, they incorporated advanced editing features into the app, allowing users to create impressive videos without the need for complex software skills. They also promoted challenges that inspired creativity and gave users a common platform for expression. TikTok's commitment to supporting emerging talent and giving them the opportunity to go viral has further endeared the platform to users.

While TikTok has undoubtedly achieved unprecedented global success within its short existence, it has not been without scrutiny and controversy. Concerns over national security have led several countries to take action. The UK, EU, Canada, New Zealand, and various US state government officials have banned TikTok from personal devices of top political officials. India and Pakistan have taken more extensive measures, banning TikTok and other Chinese apps entirely due to perceived national security threats.

China's approach to personal privacy and corporate practices differs significantly from Western standards. Companies operating in China must fully comply with government regulations, including providing any resources upon request. This raises concerns about potential surveillance and data access by the Chinese government. Tech giants like Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter are banned in China, with apps like WeChat serving as tools for government monitoring and control over citizens. As ByteDance is a Chinese corporation, fears of data privacy and government influence are heightened.

The US government has also taken steps regarding TikTok. They have signed legislation banning its use on government devices and have urged ByteDance to sell the app to an American company. However, the government's ability to completely ban the app's use by consumers in the US is questionable due to First Amendment rights. Legislators are considering additional measures, such as prohibiting TikTok from selling ads or updating the app's software, which could effectively kill its operations in the US. Negotiations and discussions on the matter are ongoing.

During his testimony before Congress, ByteDance's CEO, Zhang Yiming, emphasized TikTok's commitment to safety, transparency, and freedom of expression. He stated that TikTok's data is stored in Singapore and expressed plans to store data in the US and Norway on third-party servers. Whether these assurances will satisfy concerns regarding national security remains to be seen.

Although the future of TikTok in the US is uncertain, the app boasts over 150 million users and has become an essential marketing platform for around 5 million American businesses. While TikTok's potential security risks exist, it is worth noting that other apps like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram also collect user data. The distinction lies in the fact that these companies are founded and operated on American soil.

Ultimately, TikTok's fate will depend on ongoing negotiations, legislation, and the ability of Byte Dance to address concerns about data privacy and security. Regardless of the outcome, TikTok has firmly established itself as a global phenomenon, challenging established social media platforms and leaving an indelible mark on the digital landscape.