As debates about TikTok’s role continue, some German politicians are advocating for stricter measures against the Chinese-owned social media platform. Vice chairman of the Bundestag’s intelligence control committee, suggested a potential ban on TikTok if current regulations cannot effectively control its activities.
Concerns have been raised about TikTok’s influence in hybrid warfare tactics by China and Russia. However, not all politicians support a complete ban, with some advocating for regulatory efforts instead. Some suggested banning TikTok on federal devices, while others prefer exploring regulatory options, such as the Digital Services Act (DSA), which aims to address issues like disinformation and illegal content online.
Meanwhile, the European Commission has initiated an investigation into TikTok under the DSA for various breaches. While the discussion continues, decisions regarding IT security measures remain within the purview of national authorities, although the DSA can potentially enforce restrictions on non-compliant platforms.
What Is the Problem With TikTok?
The use of TikTok raises concerns over data privacy, potential surveillance by the Chinese government, and the risk of influencing users. Critics argue that TikTok collects excessive amounts of data, including location and device details, which may pose privacy risks.
Despite reassurances from TikTok, suspicions persist that the Chinese government could leverage the app for surveillance purposes, given its ownership by Beijing-based company ByteDance. Concerns are further heightened by China’s National Intelligence Law, which mandates support for intelligence efforts from Chinese organisations and citizens.
Although TikTok claims to safeguard user data and enlists independent oversight for European users, revelations of data access by Chinese employees have fueled distrust. Additionally, fears have been raised about TikTok’s potential as a tool for “brainwashing” or influence operations.
While TikTok’s community guidelines aim to combat misinformation, allegations persist that its recommendation algorithm could be manipulated for political ends. Although comparisons between TikTok and its Chinese counterpart, Douyin, reveal differences in censorship practices, concerns remain regarding TikTok’s role in political discourse and potential influence over its user base.
Which Countries Have Banned TikTok?
Several countries and regions have imposed bans on TikTok due to concerns over privacy, security, and its ties to China. Australia, part of the “Five Eyes” intelligence-sharing alliance, recently prohibited TikTok from all federal government devices, citing security risks associated with the app’s extensive data collection and potential foreign government influence.
Estonia’s outgoing minister announced a ban on TikTok from state-issued smartphones for public officials, although private device usage was not regulated. In the UK, the government imposed an immediate ban on TikTok on official devices as a precautionary measure for cybersecurity, following a report by the National Cyber Security Centre highlighting potential risks to sensitive government data.
Similarly, EU institutions, including the European Parliament, European Commission, and EU Council, have banned TikTok on staff devices, citing cybersecurity concerns and recommending removal of the app from personal devices. These measures reflect growing global scrutiny of TikTok’s operations and highlight concerns regarding data privacy and national security.
