What if TikTok is banned?

As TikTok faces the possibility of a ban, many users are left wondering what this means for their access to the app. Experts have shared insights on how a potential ban could affect users and how they might still engage with the platform, even if a federal law prohibiting TikTok is enforced. Here’s a look at how the ban could be implemented and what users can anticipate:

The Ban Explained: How It Would Work

The proposed ban is rooted in the **Protecting Americans From Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act**, which targets third-party companies that support TikTok’s operations. The law mainly aims to limit access to app stores and hosting services that the app relies on.

1. App Store Restrictions:

The law would require major app stores, such as Google and Apple, to remove TikTok from their platforms. This would prevent new users from downloading the app and stop current users from receiving updates. Without regular updates, the app could experience glitches, slower performance, and an overall decline in quality over time.

2. Hoervices Halted:

TikTok depends on U.S.-based hosting companies to provide the necessary infrastructure for its services. The law could make it illegal for these hosting companies to offer their services to TikTok, making the app unusable unless TikTok can secure alternative providers outside of the U.S.

3.Potential Workarounds:

Experts suggest that TikTok could potentially collaborate with non-U.S. hosting companies to keep the service running, but this might result in slower performance due to the distance of the servers.

Will Users Be Able to Access TikTok After a Ban?

Even if the ban is enacted, users could still technically access TikTok, but they would encounter some obstacles:

1. No Criminal Penalties for Users:

Contrary to some concerns, using TikTok after a potential ban would not be illegal. Users would not face penalties for simply accessing the app on their devices.

Users trying to access TikTok through workarounds, such as alternative hosting solutions or VPNs, might encounter technical difficulties. The app could slow down, leading to longer video loading times and other performance issues that could disrupt the overall experience. "The whole point of hosting content is to have it close to users," says Edgar. This would ultimately result in a diminished user experience.

No Immediate Consequences for Use;

While the app may become glitchy or sluggish, using these workarounds to access TikTok would not be against the law. However, experts believe that the drop in quality could discourage some users from sticking with the platform.

Similar Situations in Other Countries:

Experts reference India’s 2020 ban on TikTok as a potential scenario for the U.S. Although the app became unavailable shortly after the ban in India, users managed to access TikTok through various methods until the service was completely phased out.

Will TikTok Continue to Operate in the U.S.?

If TikTok chooses to navigate around the legal restrictions and continues to operate under adjusted conditions, such as relocating its hosting services abroad, users will still be able to access the app. However, as the app faces increasing technical and legal challenges, a total shutdown similar to what happened in India could be on the horizon.

Conclusion

As TikTok's legal struggles persist, users should brace for potential disruptions if the app is banned. While accessing TikTok post-ban wouldn’t be illegal, the app's performance could significantly decline, and users might encounter considerable obstacles in keeping it operational. Ultimately, those determined to access TikTok will likely find ways to do so, but whether they will still enjoy the platform as they do now remains uncertain.