TikTok to be banned in the UK Parliament
TikTok has received more bad news as the UK joins other major countries enforcing app bans amid concerns over potential vulnerabilities of government data from social media apps on devices. Ministers have ordered security investigations and reviews leading to the implementation of a TikTok ban on government devices dropped. Government policies regarding the control of third-party applications have been strengthened in line with similar restrictions put in place by major international partners such as the US and Canadian governments and the European Commission.
In February 2023, the United States, Canada, and other EU institutions introduced policies banning the use of TikTok on devices used by public officials and other members of political or governmental bodies. This is due to growing concerns that the Byte Dance app poses increased national and international security and privacy risks.
Many Android and iOS apps, including TikTok, are urging users to accept permissions that allow apps to access mobile phone data and save or upload videos, but the UK government has restricted this impact. Concerned, we are joining forces with our international partners. Data used. Unlike Europe, China does not have data protection regulations like GDPR.
It is important to note that the ban applies only to government devices and not to the personal devices of government employees, ministers, or members of the public. However, exceptions for using TikTok on government devices may be granted on a case-by-case basis if required for work or other safety concerns related to casework.
TikTok expressed disappointment with the decision, telling CNBC it was a “geopolitical” misunderstanding and had nothing to do with TikTok or its users whose CEO Shou Zi is set to testify before the U.S. Energy Chamber of Commerce, is evidence of persistent concerns about the sanctity of its app. Time will tell as to how this will all pan out, and if it’s possible for Zi to be able to convince anyone that TikTok is harmless.