What a TikTok Ban Could Mean for Users in the U.S. | She's SINGLE Magazine
top of page

What a TikTok Ban Could Mean for Users in the U.S.

by Venus Sanders

In the ongoing saga of TikTok's fate in the United States, the latest development brings the possibility of a ban closer to reality. After years of contention, a measure to outlaw the popular video-sharing app has secured congressional approval and is now awaiting President Biden's signature.


*UPDATE: President Joe Biden signed into law on Wednesday a $95 billion war aid measure that includes assistance for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan and that also has a provision that would force social media site TikTok to be sold or be banned in the U.S. This move is part of a broader effort to address national security concerns surrounding the Chinese-owned platform, ByteDance, which operates TikTok.


However, for the millions of TikTok users across the country, the prospect of a ban raises several questions about the app's future and its potential impact. Here's what you need to know:


WHEN DOES THE BAN GO INTO EFFECT?

While the original proposal aimed for a swift six-month timeline for ByteDance to divest from its U.S. subsidiary, negotiations have extended this to nine months. Additionally, if a sale is already underway, the company may receive an extra three months to finalize the process. Consequently, it could be at least a year before any ban takes effect, with the possibility of further delays due to anticipated court challenges. Past legal battles have shown TikTok's resilience, but navigating federal legislation presents a new challenge.


WHAT IF I ALREADY HAVE THE APP?

For current TikTok users, the app is unlikely to vanish from their phones immediately, even if a ban is implemented. However, it would disappear from major app stores like Apple and Google, making it inaccessible for new downloads. Over time, the lack of updates and security patches could render the app obsolete and potentially pose security risks.


ARE THERE WAYS AROUND THE BAN?

While tech-savvy users might explore workarounds like VPNs or alternative app stores, the effectiveness of such methods remains uncertain. Moreover, migrating to other platforms with similar features, such as Instagram Reels or YouTube shorts, is a viable alternative for many users. Nonetheless, concerns persist about the broader implications of relying on major tech companies to enforce bans, highlighting the complexities of regulating digital platforms.


SHOULD I BE CONCERNED ABOUT USING TIKTOK?

The primary concern driving efforts to ban TikTok revolves around data privacy and national security. Lawmakers and officials fear that Chinese authorities could access data on millions of American users, potentially compromising sensitive information. While TikTok has denied allegations of data sharing with the Chinese government, skepticism remains regarding its independence from Beijing's influence.


As discussions surrounding TikTok's future unfold, users are left to navigate uncertainty about the app's fate and its implications for privacy and security. While alternatives exist, the broader implications of regulating social media platforms in an increasingly interconnected world remain a topic of ongoing debate and scrutiny.

bottom of page