The buzz surrounding TikTok is undeniable.
From the good to the bad and even the ugly, virtually everyone has dipped their toes into its iridescent waters. Regardless of political or socio-economic concerns, the social hype and validation draws users in droves. But how does it affect the mind of its users and what are the faultlines at the back end?
Tiktok Origins
Originating from China, the ByteDance-owned app has skyrocketed onto the global stage with seemingly impenetrable fortitude. For the past seven years, TikTok has been a staple for millions, if not billions, worldwide, captivating audiences with content ranging from mere seconds to full-fledged 10-minute spectacles.
While TikTok’s ability to capture attention is commendable, its propensity for both the entertaining and the harmful cannot be overlooked. This duality raises concerns, particularly among some countries like the US.
One of the primary concerns revolves around the app’s algorithm, which adeptly serves users with content tailored to their preferences, irrespective of its potential harm. The ease with which individuals, including those aged 13 and over, can stumble upon inappropriate or distressing content is troubling.
An International Headache?
In the US, the House of Representatives recently passed a bill aiming to compel TikTok’s Chinese owner, ByteDance, to divest from the company or face expulsion from US app stores.
Lawmakers fear potential Chinese government access to user data and influence over American users through TikTok’s addictive algorithm. Despite bipartisan support for the bill, it faces hurdles in the Senate and opposition from TikTok’s vast user base and digital rights advocates.
The battle over TikTok underscores broader US-China competition and concerns about foreign influence campaigns. While ByteDance denies allegations of Chinese government control, its ownership by a Chinese company places it squarely in the crosshairs of Western governments and regulators.
Already, some states in the US like florida have lapped up the decision to restrictions social media use for minors.
The road ahead for TikTok is uncertain, with legislative battles and geopolitical tensions shaping its fate. However, the app’s unique blend of entertainment and controversy ensures its place at the forefront of global discourse.
Should It Be Restricted?
Indeed, proposed restrictions targeting TikTok may amount to mere “security theater” given the vast amounts of data collected by both foreign and domestic tech companies.
According to a cyber law and privacy professor at the University of Richmond Anne Toomey McKenna:
“While TikTok is singled out, other apps like WeChat and Alipay also raise similar concerns.”
She suggests that focusing on TikTok appears to be more about political theatrics than enacting effective legislation to safeguard Americans’ data security and privacy.
Concerns regarding misinformation, children’s safety, mental health, and social media addiction are prevalent across all social media platforms.
While TikTok faces scrutiny, a blanket ban on any social media app would not only curtail free speech but also fail to withstand strict legal scrutiny.
Instead of outright banning TikTok, advocates have called for the implementation of federal regulations to prohibit the sale of user data, establish safety protocols, and mandate social media safety education in schools. There are also emphasis on the importance of ensuring that Americans have confidence in the security of their data and some degree of control over the algorithms governing their social media feeds.
Simply banning an app like TikTok would remove valuable communities for activists and book lovers without addressing the underlying issues.
