TikTok is not just a social media platform but also a powerful tool for data collection and influence. The Chinese government’s access to data on U.S. citizens, coupled with a decades-long campaign of cyber espionage, raises serious concerns. They’ve hacked U.S. government organizations and companies, targeting sensitive personal information, like the 2015 breach of the Office of Personnel Management, where data on millions of federal employees—particularly those with security clearances—was stolen. This data could be used to compromise individuals, exploiting personal vulnerabilities like financial issues or health concerns to extract sensitive information.

At the same time, Russian operatives have been discovered using TikTok to spread divisive and hateful content aimed at inflaming tensions, especially among right-wing Americans. Despite some being identified, many more may go unnoticed, manipulating users with carefully crafted propaganda.

The app’s algorithm also raises red flags. In China, TikTok promotes educational content, while in the U.S., it feeds users a stream of mind-numbing and divisive material. This difference suggests a deliberate strategy to influence users in different countries. With media literacy at a low level, many Americans are unaware they’re being manipulated.

In summary, TikTok isn’t just a data collection tool—it's a platform for strategic influence, where foreign and domestic actors push propaganda that shapes public opinion and exploits personal vulnerabilities. The question isn't just who’s watching, but who’s benefiting from the content you see.

Quote: "Lawmakers and regulators have increasingly expressed concern that TikTok and its parent company, ByteDance, may put sensitive user data, like location information, into the hands of the Chinese government."

The bill that Biden signed gives TikTok’s Chinese parent, ByteDance, 270 days to sell TikTok. Failure to do so would lead to significant consequences: TikTok would be prohibited from US app stores and from “internet hosting services” that support it.

That would effectively restrict new downloads of the app and interaction with its content. Biden’s decision to sign the bill on Wednesday puts the deadline for a sale at January 19, 2025. Under the legislation, however, Biden could extend the deadline another 90 days if he determines the company’s made progress toward a sale, giving TikTok potentially up to a year before facing a ban.

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