Following India’s decision to ban TikTok, the popular social media platform may now face a similar fate in the United States. The allegation against TikTok is that it is a Chinese-owned app capable of stealing user data. The proposal to ban TikTok has been passed in the American Congress.
TikTok Ban in America
TikTok, launched by China in 2016, swiftly rose to become the world’s number one app by 2020. At one point, it was the most widely used social media platform globally. Its largest market became India. However, amidst growing concerns, India was the first to ban the app, even as its usage was at its peak. Now, following India’s decision, America is also contemplating banning TikTok.
Allegations of Data Theft
TikTok is owned by the Chinese company ByteDance. There are fears in the US that the app might be stealing data. The US Congress alleges that TikTok is operated by China’s ruling Communist Party, which could potentially compromise the data of American users. The proposal to ban TikTok has been passed in Congress with a majority vote, raising the possibility of a ban in America.
Pre-existing Ban in India
India was TikTok’s largest user base. Its market in India surpassed that of other countries. However, Indian authorities deemed the app a threat to national security. Indian agencies called for a ban, fearing it could jeopardize India’s security. Responding to these concerns, the Indian government banned TikTok in 2020.
The once-popular app TikTok finds itself under scrutiny in both India and the United States. Allegations of data theft have prompted serious deliberations about its future in these countries. With India already imposing a ban and the US Congress passing a proposal for a ban, TikTok’s fate hangs in the balance as it navigates through these turbulent times.