TikTok has returned to Apple and Google app stores after nearly a month of removal due to a US security law. The app’s disappearance on January 18 left millions of users frustrated. However, the social media platform is now back after US President Donald Trump ordered a 75-day pause on enforcing the law.
Security Concerns Spark Ban
The law, signed by former President Joe Biden and approved by Congress, cited national security risks. US lawmakers expressed concern that the Chinese government could use TikTok to spy on Americans or manipulate public opinion through data collection and content control.
The law ordered TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to divest from its Chinese ownership or face a ban. Companies violating the law could face fines of up to $5,000 per user if Americans accessed the app.
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Trump’s Intervention
President Trump, during his second term, placed a temporary halt on the law’s enforcement. He proposed a potential joint venture between ByteDance and US investors, though he provided no specific details.
“Essentially, with TikTok, I have the right to either sell it or close it,” Trump said at the time. He also mentioned that approval from China might be necessary and warned of tariffs if cooperation was not granted.
Although Trump had tried to ban TikTok during his first term, he now expressed a softer stance, saying he had a “warm spot” for the app.
TikTok’s Global Scrutiny
Launched in 2016 as Douyin for China, TikTok was released internationally in 2017. Since then, the app has faced global scrutiny over data privacy concerns and alleged ties to the Chinese government. Several governments have questioned whether ByteDance could share user data with Chinese authorities, leading to calls for stricter regulations or outright bans.
TikTok’s return to US app stores signals a temporary resolution to the latest round of security concerns. However, the app’s future remains uncertain as debates over data privacy and national security continue.
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