ByteDance: US Prefers Shut Down to Protecting Users
TikTok and ByteDance are fighting against a US law set to ban the app in January 2023, citing the government’s lack of effort to find a solution. ByteDance claims divesting TikTok’s US assets is not feasible. Talks abruptly ended in August 2022, resulting in a redacted 100-page draft security agreement to protect user data and a demand for a “kill switch”.
The US Department of Justice is committed to defending the law in court, sparking concerns about free speech rights and potential Chinese influence. A lawsuit filed by TikTok users challenges the ban, arguing that the law unfairly targets TikTok and infringes on Americans’ rights.
Free Speech Rights
TikTok asserts that any divestiture process would be lengthy and insists on protecting users’ privacy. The law prohibits app stores from offering TikTok and hosting services from supporting it without ByteDance divesting. The outcome of the upcoming court case will determine TikTok’s future and set a precedent for government actions against foreign-owned apps.