What's up with TikTok?

The TikTok drama has reached a boiling point, with days left before app officially exits the US. But behind the dance videos and viral trends lies a complex web of cybersecurity concerns, international relations, and data privacy issues. Let's break down what's actually happening and what it means for you.

The Key Players' POV

🇺🇸 What the U.S. is Saying:

• TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, could be compelled by Chinese law to share user data with the Chinese government

• The app could be used to influence American public opinion through its content recommendation algorithm

• National security concerns extend beyond just data collection to potential surveillance capabilities

• The company has failed to provide sufficient guarantees about data protection

📱 What TikTok is Saying:

• They've never shared U.S. user data with the Chinese government and wouldn't do so if asked

• Project Texas ($1.5 billion initiative) stores all U.S. user data on Oracle servers in America

• The company is being unfairly targeted despite taking more data protection measures than other social platforms

• They're willing to be more transparent about their algorithms and data practices

🇨🇳 What China is Saying:

• The ban represents technological protectionism disguised as national security concerns

• The U.S. is suppressing a successful Chinese company without concrete evidence

• The move violates principles of fair market competition and international trade rules

• American companies operate freely in China while Chinese companies face restrictions abroad

What TikTok Actually Collects

Before we dive into the security debate, let's look at what TikTok admittedly collects (all disclosed in their privacy policy):

• Your personal info: Name, email, phone number, birthday

• Device details: Model, ID, carrier, OS, IP address

• Usage patterns: Every video you watch, like, and share

• Location data: Both IP-based and GPS (if permitted)

• Keystroke patterns and clipboard content

• Third-party data: Information from partners, advertisers, and other apps

• Payment details: When you make purchases

• Contact lists: If you allow access

A Detail Worth Noting

Despite years of investigation and debate, there's currently no publicly available evidence that Chinese government officials have influenced what Americans see on TikTok or conducted cyber espionage through the app. However, the concern isn't about what has happened – it's about what could happen under Chinese law.

What Users Should Do Now

Whether TikTok gets banned or not, here are essential steps to protect yourself:

1. Audit Your App Permissions:

   • Disable unnecessary permissions like location tracking and contact access

   • Use TikTok only through a web browser instead of the app for better control

   • Regularly clear the app's cache and data

2. Data Hygiene:

   • Never link your TikTok account to other social media profiles

   • Use a unique password not shared with other accounts

   • Enable two-factor authentication

   • Avoid logging in through Facebook or Google

3. Content Awareness:

   • Be conscious of the content you interact with

   • Remember that the algorithm learns from every second you spend watching videos

   • Regularly check your Digital Wellbeing settings

🔍 Don't Get Got

While the political theater around TikTok is intense, the core security concerns are legitimate. The app's data collection practices and potential for influence operations present real risks that users should take seriously, regardless of whether a ban takes effect.

Forward this newsletter to friends who need to stay informed about digital security.

P.S. Your experiences matter. If you've encountered a scam or hack and have insights to share, we invite you to connect with us. Let's build a community that stands against cyber threats.