Exploring the Implications of Montana Governor’s Controversial Move to Ban TikTok

Why There’s Increasing Pressure to Ban TikTok

Introduction

The world’s most downloaded app in 2020 with 2 billion downloads is facing criticism and backlash worldwide due to concerns of spying, data theft, and inappropriate content. TikTok has grown to unprecedented levels and has opened up new opportunities for those seeking notoriety on this platform. However, the app has also created a giant rift between countries that see TikTok as a risk to its citizens and those who argue that such bans are unnecessary and unwarranted. Recent news of Montana becoming the first state to ban TikTok, citing concerns about data collection and privacy violations under Chinese law, has made the issue once again highly contentious.

The Montana Ban

Montana Governor, Greg Gianforte signed a bill to ban TikTok in Montana from January 2022. Proponents of the bill argue that TikTok poses a threat to personal data privacy and security due to its Chinese ownership. The Montana law specifically names TikTok as its target and outlines the potential fines of $10,000 per day for violators, including app stores found to host the social media application. The ban is expected to face a challenge in court, as NetChoice, a technology trade group that includes TikTok as a member, called the bill unconstitutional.

The US-China TikTok Conflict

The debate surrounding TikTok is part of a larger political dispute between China and the US. In August 2020, former-President Donald Trump signed an executive order banning TikTok in the US, citing concerns about how the app handles data. However, TikTok‘s ban was paused by a federal court. The Biden administration has yet to take an official stance on the app’s future but has upheld Trump’s executive order.

Privacy Concerns

TikTok‘s immense growth has now caught the attention of regulators worldwide and privacy advocates. Critics express concerns that the app, which is owned by Chinese company ByteDance, poses a severe national security threat. There are concerns that the Chinese government could potentially access user data via TikTok for spying purposes. The company has repeatedly insisted that US user data is stored in the US and is under the oversight of a team based in the US. There’s no evidence to date that the Chinese government has accessed personal information from US-based TikTok users, but concerns have persisted.

TikTok‘s Response

TikTok has pushed back against claims of threats to privacy, security, and user data. In a statement to CNN, TikTok said it would push to defend users’ rights in Montana and reassure users that they can continue using the app to earn a living, find community, and express themselves. TikTok also released its transparency report for H2 2020, which showed a drop in the number of requests for user data. The company has also collaborated with cybersecurity experts and has implemented measures to prevent the spread of disinformation and hate speech on its platform.

Editorial and Advice

In conclusion, the debate surrounding TikTok is complex. It’s not solely a discussion on data privacy and security but is emblematic of a larger political dispute. TikTok has become a platform where users create content that enables them to be heard, seen, and impact a global audience. Governments should prioritise users’ rights and privacy while also acknowledging TikTok‘s potential to fuel creative expression and entrepreneurship. A narrow policy purely based on the app’s origin, without giving a chance for the app to prove its intentions, could lead to missed opportunities and stifle innovation. Therefore, a well-informed, nuanced, and evidence-based approach is needed to tackle the challenges TikTok presents. Ultimately, a global consensus is necessary to address privacy and safety issues regarding TikTok and prevent the application of measures that could limit the digital rights of users.