TikTok to contest legal battle over US ban threat. In response to new legislation signed by President Joe Biden and passed by the US Senate, TikTok, the popular video-sharing app owned by ByteDance, has announced plans to fight against potential bans imposed by the US government.
Legislative Background:
The US Senate voted decisively with a tally of 79-18 in favor of the legislative package, which also received bipartisan support in the House of Representatives with a vote of 360-58.
Allegations Against TikTok:
US authorities claim that TikTok‘s data collection practices pose a risk to national security, suggesting that Chinese authorities could exploit the information for interference in US affairs and democratic processes. TikTok, however, denies these allegations.
Also read: US passes bill for possible TikTok ban
TikTok’s Defense:
TikTok issued a statement asserting its confidence in prevailing legally, citing substantial investments made to safeguard US user data and ensure platform integrity against external manipulation.
n a statement, TikTok said: “We believe the facts and the law are clearly on our side, and we will ultimately prevail.”
“The fact is, we have invested billions of dollars to keep US data safe and our platform free from outside influence and manipulation,” it noted, adding that “this ban would devastate seven million businesses and silence 170 million Americans”.
Potential Impact of Ban:
The company warned of dire consequences, highlighting the potential devastation to millions of businesses and the silencing of 170 million American users should a ban be imposed.
The TikTok ban was part of a comprehensive $95 billion legislative package that also included military aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Indo-Pacific allies.
ByteDance’s Position:
As TikTok to contest legal battle over US ban threat, ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company based in Beijing, rejects claims of being controlled by the Chinese government, emphasizing that a majority (60%) of its ownership is held by global investors.
Also read: Biden joins TikTok despite security concerns
