It’s official. Another country has banned TikTok, and it’s very possible that the U.S. will be next.
According to Reuters, Australia banned TikTok on Tuesday from all federal government-owned devices over security concerns, becoming the latest U.S.-allied country to take action against the Chinese-owned video app.
The TikTok ban in the United States has been a hot topic of discussion since 2020. The social media app, owned by Chinese tech company ByteDance, has been the subject of controversy due to security and privacy concerns. Let’s explore the history of the TikTok ban, the major concerns surrounding the app, potential replacements, what influencers have to say, how much advertisers stand to lose, and the arguments from both sides.
TikTok has become one of the most popular social media platforms globally, attracting over a billion active users who create and share short-form videos. However, the app has also faced scrutiny and controversies related to privacy and security concerns, leading some policymakers and experts to call for a ban on TikTok in the United States.
History of the TikTok Ban
The idea of a TikTok ban in the United States began to gain traction in 2019 when lawmakers raised concerns about the app’s security and privacy. TikTok was accused of collecting vast amounts of user data and sharing it with the Chinese government. ByteDance denied these allegations, but the concerns persisted.
In July 2020, the Trump administration announced that it was considering a ban on TikTok in the United States. The main concern was that the app could be used to spy on American citizens and steal their personal information. The administration gave ByteDance 45 days to sell the app to an American company or face a ban.
TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, attempted to negotiate with potential buyers, including Microsoft and Oracle. However, talks fell through, and in September 2020, the Trump administration issued an executive order banning TikTok and WeChat, another Chinese-owned app. The ban was scheduled to take effect on September 20th but was temporarily blocked by a federal judge.
In December 2020, the Trump administration issued a new executive order requiring ByteDance to divest from TikTok within 90 days. This order was also temporarily blocked by a federal judge, and in February 2021, the Biden administration put the order on hold while it conducted a review of the app’s security.
Major Concerns About TikTok
The main concern surrounding TikTok is that it collects vast amounts of user data and shares it with the Chinese government. TikTok has denied these allegations and has repeatedly stated that it stores US user data in the United States and Singapore, with backups in other countries.
However, concerns remain about the app’s ties to the Chinese government. The Chinese government has strict data privacy laws that require companies to share user data with the government if requested. Additionally, some experts believe that ByteDance’s algorithms could be used to promote content that is favorable to the Chinese government.
Bill Gates, Co-founder of Microsoft, said, “I think that TikTok has raised legitimate concerns about data privacy and security, and it’s important that we take these concerns seriously.”
Potential Replacements If TikTok Is Banned In The U.S.
There are several apps that could potentially replace TikTok if it were to be banned in the United States. One of the most popular is Instagram Reels, or its counterpart Facebook Reels. Both platforms offer a short-form video feature on Instagram and Facebook. Reels allow users to create 15-second videos with music and share them on their Instagram and Facebook profiles.
One key difference between Facebook Reels and Instagram Reels is the audience. Instagram is primarily focused on mobile, whereas Facebook is a cross-platform social media network accessible on desktop and mobile devices. As such, Facebook Reels are designed to reach a broader audience across multiple devices and platforms, whereas Instagram Reels are more mobile-centric.
Another difference is the integration with other Facebook features, such as Messenger Rooms and Live Rooms. Facebook users can create Reels and share them directly with Messenger Rooms, allowing for group video chats with friends and family. Additionally, Facebook Live Rooms allows creators to host live video sessions with up to three other people, giving more opportunities for interactive and collaborative content creation.
Despite these differences, Facebook Reels and Instagram Reels share many similarities. Both features were launched in response to the popularity of TikTok and aim to provide users with a way to create and share short-form videos. They both also offer a wide range of editing tools, including music, filters, and effects, to help users create engaging and visually appealing content.
Can Triller Replace TikTok?
Another app that could replace TikTok is Triller. Triller is a social media app that allows users to create and share short-form videos with music. The app has gained popularity in recent months due to its partnerships with major music labels and celebrities.
One significant difference between TikTok, Triller, Instagram, and Facebook is ownership. While Facebook and Instagram Reels are owned by Facebook, and TikTok is owned by ByteDance, Triller is owned by TrillerNet, a social media and entertainment company. TrillerNet was formed in 2020 when Triller acquired a live music streaming platform called Verzuz.
Another difference is the app’s focus on music and entertainment. Triller has partnerships with major music labels and artists, allowing users to access a vast library of licensed music and collaborate with musicians and celebrities. Triller also offers a feature called TrillerTV, which showcases original music and entertainment content, including exclusive interviews and performances from famous artists and influencers.
In terms of celebrity endorsements, Triller has been heavily promoted by several high-profile celebrities, including Snoop Dogg, Cardi B, and Lil Wayne, who have all used the app to create and share content with their fans.
Still, Facebook and Instagram Reels arguably offer a broader range of content beyond music and entertainment. While music is a significant feature of both platforms, users can also create and share videos about a wide range of topics, from comedy to beauty to cooking. Additionally, Facebook and Instagram Reels are integrated with other Facebook-owned apps, such as Messenger and WhatsApp, allowing for seamless sharing and interaction across platforms.
Influencer Reactions to the TikTok Ban
Influencers on TikTok were understandably concerned about the potential ban and its impact on their careers. Many influencers rely on TikTok as their primary platform for creating and sharing content, and a ban could have a significant impact on their reach and engagement.
“I really hope that TikTok isn’t banned. It’s given me so many opportunities that I never would have had otherwise.” – Addison Rae, TikTok Star
Some influencers began to explore other platforms, such as Instagram and YouTube, as potential replacements for TikTok. Charli D’Amelio, TikTok Star, had this to say, “It’s really scary to think that TikTok could be banned. It’s become such a big part of my life and my career.”
Others expressed their frustration with the situation and urged their followers to support their efforts to keep TikTok alive in the United States. Joshua Weissman, a viral TikTok Creator, said, “It’s frustrating to see TikTok being targeted like this. I know that the platform has its issues, but it’s also a place for creativity and community.”
Why Lawmakers Favor a U.S. TikTok Ban
The federal government and some state governments have already taken measures to restrict or limit TikTok’s use. In December 2022, the U.S. Department of Defense banned TikTok from government devices and networks, citing security concerns related to the app’s Chinese ownership and data practices. Several U.S. states, including California, New York, and Texas, have proposed or enacted bills that ban TikTok’s use by public employees or contractors.
“It is no secret that TikTok has ties to the Chinese Communist Party and poses a threat to our national security.” – Senator Marco Rubio, R-Florida
Senator Chuck Schumer, D-New York, stated, “TikTok has repeatedly shown itself to be a threat to data privacy and security, and it’s time that we take action to protect American citizens.”
At the federal level, some lawmakers have proposed bills that would ban TikTok or restrict its use by federal employees or contractors. For example, Senate Bill 486, introduced in February 2023, would prohibit federal agencies from using TikTok or any app developed by a company with ties to China, Russia, or North Korea.
“We have to take seriously the threats that are posed by TikTok, and we have to make sure that American data is protected.” – Mike Pompeo, Former Secretary of State
Proponents of a TikTok ban argue that the app poses a significant threat to national security and personal privacy. They claim that the Chinese government could use TikTok to collect data on U.S. citizens, including their locations, contacts, and interests. They also point out that TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, has faced allegations of censorship and data manipulation in other countries, raising questions about its commitment to free speech and democratic values.
Representative Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, stated, “TikTok is a Chinese-owned app that has been accused of collecting vast amounts of user data and sharing it with the Chinese government. We need to take action to protect American users.”
On the other hand, opponents of a TikTok ban argue that it would violate free speech and limit access to a popular and innovative platform. They point out that TikTok has become a vital tool for creators, influencers, and small businesses to connect with audiences and promote their work. They also argue that TikTok has implemented several measures to address security and privacy concerns, such as partnering with third-party firms for content moderation and data storage.
Moreover, some argue that banning TikTok would set a dangerous precedent and could lead to a broader crackdown on other social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. Some experts also warn that a U.S. TikTok ban could provoke retaliation from China and exacerbate the already tense trade and geopolitical relations between the two countries.
Why Others Want to Stop The US TikTok Ban
There are several reasons why people are against the TikTok ban in the United States.
One of the main concerns is that a ban could be used as a pretext to invade the public’s privacy. The government could use the ban as a way to justify increased surveillance of social media and other online activities.
Another issue with the TikTok ban is that it could lead to a wider tech war between the United States and China. Some experts believe that a tech war could be detrimental to both countries and could lead to increased tensions and instability.
Joe Rogan, a popular podcast host and comedian, has spoken out against the TikTok ban.
In a podcast episode, Rogan stated:
“I think it’s crazy to ban TikTok. I mean, I get that there are security concerns, but we shouldn’t be banning apps just because they’re from China. That’s like saying we’re going to ban every app that’s made in Russia or North Korea. It’s not a good precedent to set.”
Rogan is not alone in his views. Many tech experts and civil liberties advocates have spoken out against the TikTok ban, arguing that it could set a dangerous precedent for the government’s ability to invade the public’s privacy.
There is also concern that the TikTok ban could be used as a way to stifle free speech. TikTok has become a platform for political activism and protest, and a ban could be seen as an attempt to silence dissenting voices.
Cardi B is among other celebrities who have also spoken out against the TikTok ban. In an Instagram post, Cardi B stated:
“TikTok is how I stay connected with my fans and how I promote my music. If it gets banned, it’s going to be a huge blow to my career and to the careers of other artists. We need to fight against this ban and protect our right to free expression.”
The TikTok ban in the United States is a controversial issue with strong arguments on both sides. While there are concerns about security and privacy, many people are against the ban because they believe it could be used as a pretext for increased government surveillance and could set a dangerous precedent for the future. Celebrities and public figures have also spoken out against the ban, arguing that it could stifle free speech and harm their careers.
But privacy isn’t the only concern to consider.
How Much Money Would Be Lost If TikTok is Banned in the U.S.?
A potential TikTok ban in the United States could have a significant impact on advertisers. According to a report by eMarketer, US advertisers were projected to spend $1.5 billion on TikTok in 2021. If the app were to be banned, this revenue would be lost, and advertisers would need to find other platforms to reach their target audiences.
For TikTok creators, a ban would also be devastating. Many creators rely on the app as their primary source of income, earning money through brand deals, sponsored content, and merchandise sales. According to a report by Influencer Marketing Hub, the top TikTok creators can earn as much as $200,000 per sponsored post. A ban would mean a loss of income for these creators, and they would need to find other platforms to reach their audiences and make money.
In addition to the financial impact, a ban would also have a psychological impact on creators. Many creators have built their careers and communities on TikTok and would be devastated to see the app go. The loss of this platform could lead to a loss of audience, engagement, and even mental health for some creators.
However, if TikTok were to be banned, it would open up opportunities for other platforms to gain market share. Instagram Reels, Facebook Reels, and Triller, as mentioned earlier, are three apps that could potentially benefit from a TikTok ban. These platforms would need to attract TikTok creators and advertisers to their platforms, which could lead to increased competition and innovation in the short-form video space.
“I think that we should be very careful about the apps that we allow to operate in the United States, especially if they have ties to foreign governments.” – Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Facebook
Will TikTok Be Banned in The U.S.?
In short, the debate over a potential TikTok ban in the U.S. highlights the complex and competing interests at stake, including national security, personal privacy, free speech, innovation, and global diplomacy. While there are valid concerns and risks associated with TikTok’s use, some continue to argue that a complete ban may not be the most effective or appropriate solution. Is it enough for policymakers and stakeholders to engage in a constructive dialogue and explore alternative strategies, such as regulation, transparency, and partnership with industry and civil society actors? The jury is still out on this one.
Do you think TikTok will be banned in the U.S.?