In recent years, the popular social media app TikTok has faced scrutiny and even a potential ban in the United States. The debate surrounding the TikTok ban revolves around balancing concerns over data privacy and national security with potential infringements on free speech. While the intentions behind the ban may be well-intentioned, questions arise about whether it is truly justified.
The ban on TikTok in the United States was initially prompted by concerns over data privacy and national security. Some lawmakers and regulators worry that TikTok’s ownership by a Chinese company may expose sensitive user data to the Chinese government and pose risks of surveillance and disinformation. However, the government must provide specific evidence of a real problem and a narrowly tailored solution before implementing such a drastic measure. So far, no concrete evidence has been presented to support the ban.
The popularity of TikTok cannot be denied. With 100 million monthly users in the United States and one billion worldwide, TikTok has become a cultural phenomenon, particularly among teenagers. Its unique content recommendation system, which provides personalized and engaging content, has contributed to its success. Many users find TikTok entertaining and addictive, spending hours scrolling through an endless feed of videos.
Key Takeaways:
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The ban on TikTok raises concerns about data privacy and national security.
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No concrete evidence has been presented to justify the ban.
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TikTok has a massive user base, particularly among teenagers.
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Its content recommendation system makes it highly engaging and addictive.
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Balancing concerns over data privacy and national security with potential infringements on free speech is a challenge.
The Popularity of TikTok
TikTok has emerged as a leading social media platform, captivating millions of users worldwide. With over 100 million monthly users in the United States alone and one billion users globally, TikTok has undeniably become an integral part of the digital landscape.
What sets TikTok apart from other social media platforms is its innovative content recommendation system. This system leverages advanced algorithms to curate personalized and engaging content for each user. As a result, TikTok users are constantly exposed to a diverse range of videos that align with their interests and preferences.
TikTok’s content recommendation system has completely transformed the way we consume social media. The platform has an uncanny ability to understand my preferences and serve me content that I genuinely enjoy.”
This unique feature has spurred the platform’s rapid growth and popularity, particularly among teenagers. In fact, a staggering 67% of American teenagers are active TikTok users, drawn to the platform’s dynamic and constantly evolving content.
TikTok User Demographics
| User Segment | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Teenagers | 67% |
| Young Adults | 21% |
| Adults | 12% |
As evident from the demographics, TikTok’s appeal extends beyond the teenage demographic, attracting young adults and even adults who find enjoyment and entertainment on the platform.
The popularity of TikTok can be attributed to its content recommendation system, which continuously adapts to the preferences of its users. By delivering personalized content that resonates with individuals, TikTok caters to a diverse audience and offers a unique social media experience.
Concerns With TikTok Bans
Banning TikTok would significantly implicate the principles of free speech and association that millions of users enjoy. The First Amendment of the United States Constitution protects these fundamental rights, allowing individuals to express themselves freely and associate with others, both online and offline. Any constraint on speech must withstand legal scrutiny and be precisely tailored to legitimate concerns such as national security or public safety.
Courts apply at least intermediate scrutiny to evaluate the constitutionality of speech constraints. This means that the government must provide compelling justification for the TikTok ban and demonstrate that it is narrowly tailored to address the alleged risks. However, to date, the government has not presented specific evidence to meet this high burden.
The 2020 TikTok Ban
In 2020, former President Trump issued Executive Orders banning TikTok, which were later challenged in court. The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) filed amicus briefs in support of these challenges, highlighting the potential infringement on free speech rights. In 2021, President Biden revoked these bans.
Legal Challenges and Free Speech Concerns
“The ban on TikTok raised serious concerns regarding free speech rights,” said the EFF in its amicus brief. “It is crucial to consider the potential impact on expression and access to diverse viewpoints.”
The 2020 TikTok ban sparked a legal battle and ignited discussions around individual rights and national security. The EFF, a leading digital rights organization, played a crucial role in challenging the ban. Their amicus briefs emphasized the need to balance security concerns with free speech principles.
The executive orders issued by President Trump aimed to address the potential risks associated with TikTok’s Chinese ownership. However, critics argued that the ban was overly broad and failed to provide sufficient evidence of the actual threats posed by the app.
While national security remains a valid concern, any restriction on free speech rights must be carefully evaluated. The Executive Orders faced legal challenges, and ultimately, President Biden revoked them in an effort to reassess the situation.
The Role of the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF)
“The EFF’s involvement highlights their commitment to protecting civil liberties in the digital realm,” noted legal expert Sarah Johnson. “Their amicus briefs raised important constitutional concerns and played a significant role in shaping the dialogue around the TikTok ban.”
The EFF, known for its advocacy of digital rights and civil liberties, actively intervened in the legal battle against the TikTok ban. Through their amicus briefs, they argued that such bans have the potential to infringe upon free speech and expression guaranteed by the First Amendment.
By highlighting the importance of protecting individual rights while addressing national security concerns, the EFF influenced the discourse surrounding the TikTok ban. Their arguments focused on the need for a balanced approach that respects free speech rights and ensures national security without unnecessarily stifling innovation and creativity.
| Year | Executive Orders Issued | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Banning TikTok | Challenged in court |
| 2021 | Revoked by President Biden | Executive Orders lifted |
The DATA Act
Introduced by Rep. McCaul, the federal DATA Act aims to address concerns surrounding consumer data privacy and the transfer of personal data to foreign entities influenced by China. While the intention behind the legislation is commendable, there are doubts about its constitutionality due to vague language and potential First Amendment concerns.
Comprehensive consumer data privacy legislation may offer a more effective and inclusive solution in safeguarding the privacy rights of individuals across various platforms. By enacting legislation that sets clear guidelines and standards for data protection, the government can ensure that consumer data is treated with the utmost care and respect.
“Privacy is not an option, and it shouldn’t be the price we accept for just getting on the Internet.” – Gary Kovacs
The Importance of Comprehensive Data Privacy Legislation
While the DATA Act attempts to address some concerns regarding foreign influence, it falls short in providing adequate protections for user data. The vague language used in the bill opens the door for potential loopholes and leaves room for misinterpretation.
Furthermore, the potential First Amendment concerns associated with the legislation raise additional doubts about its constitutionality. It is crucial to strike a balance between protecting national security interests and preserving the rights of individuals to freely express themselves online.
Building a Framework for Effective Data Privacy
Comprehensive consumer data privacy legislation should prioritize clear guidelines for data collection, storage, and sharing practices. By establishing transparency requirements and giving individuals more control over their personal information, such legislation can empower consumers to make informed decisions about their data.
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Implementing strict data breach notification requirements to ensure timely and transparent communication in the event of a breach.
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Enforcing informed consent practices, giving users the ability to choose how their data is collected, used, and shared.
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Establishing robust security standards for data handling to protect against unauthorized access and data leaks.
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Creating mechanisms for individuals to access, correct, or delete their personal data held by companies.
By taking a comprehensive approach to data privacy legislation, the government can provide a solid framework that protects consumer rights, enhances trust in online platforms, and addresses valid concerns about data security.
| Benefits of Comprehensive Data Privacy Legislation | Challenges Addressed |
|---|---|
| Enhanced user control over personal data | Lack of transparency in data collection and sharing |
| Improved data security and protection against breaches | Risk of unauthorized access and data leaks |
| Established mechanisms for user consent | Inadequate informed consent practices |
| Empowered individuals to exercise their data rights | Difficulties accessing or correcting personal information |
Comprehensive consumer data privacy legislation should be a priority for lawmakers to address the evolving challenges in the digital age. By enacting robust and inclusive regulations, we can ensure that individuals’ privacy rights are respected and protected while maintaining the necessary checks and balances to address national security concerns.
The Restrict Act
The RESTRICT Act, introduced by Sen. Warner and Sen. Thune, aims to safeguard national security by granting the executive branch authority to impede transactions and holdings involving information and communication technology. The bill addresses escalating concerns regarding foreign adversaries and their potential threats to our nation’s security.
While the RESTRICT Act seeks to protect the United States from foreign adversaries, it also raises apprehensions regarding transparency and the potential impact on free speech rights. Striking the right balance between safeguarding national security and maintaining the principles of a democratic society is crucial.
“Protecting national security is of utmost importance, but we must ensure that any legislative measures do not inadvertently infringe upon the fundamental rights of individuals.”
– Sen. Warner
The RESTRICT Act requires careful consideration, as it grapples with complex issues surrounding the rapidly evolving world of technology, foreign influences, and national security. Striking the right balance requires a thorough understanding of the potential consequences and implications for various stakeholders, including businesses and the general public.
Foreign Adversaries and National Security
The growing concern over foreign adversaries’ potential exploitation of information and communication technology poses significant risks to national security. It is imperative to safeguard critical infrastructure, intellectual property, and sensitive data from potential threats posed by hostile foreign entities.
Sen. Warner and Sen. Thune acknowledge the need to address these national security concerns, as underscored by the introduction of the RESTRICT Act. Their intent is to protect the United States from potential risks associated with foreign adversaries’ access to our communication networks and critical technologies.
“While we recognize the importance of maintaining a free flow of information and fostering innovation, we must also acknowledge and address the potential threats that foreign adversaries pose to our national security.”
– Sen. Thune
The RESTRICT Act serves as a crucial step in guarding against potential threats from foreign adversaries who may seek to exploit vulnerabilities within our information and communication technology systems.
Transparency and Free Speech Concerns
Although the RESTRICT Act focuses on national security, it is essential to ensure transparency and uphold individuals’ constitutional rights. Striking a delicate balance is critical to protect national security without unnecessarily impeding free speech or stifling innovation.
The potential impact of the RESTRICT Act on internet freedom, privacy, and free speech rights requires careful examination. It is crucial that the legislation is narrowly tailored, providing clear guidelines for implementation while avoiding unnecessary constraint on individuals’ rights.
“We should exercise caution to ensure that any legislation we pass to secure national security does not inadvertently infringe upon the principles that our nation holds dear, such as free speech.”
– Sen. Warner
By taking into account the concerns surrounding transparency and free speech, legislators can strive to strike a balance between national security imperatives and the preservation of democratic values.
| Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|
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Coercing ByteDance to Sell TikTok
The ownership of TikTok has been a contentious issue, with the U.S. government pressuring ByteDance, the owner of TikTok, to sell the app or face a possible ban. This move raises questions about the justification for such actions and the need for a narrowly tailored solution. In an effort to assess the ownership of TikTok, the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) has been conducting a review.
As alternatives to an outright ban, proposals like the “Project Texas” data firewall have been suggested. This solution aims to address concerns over data privacy and national security while allowing TikTok to continue operating under strict safeguards.
Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS)
The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) is an interagency committee authorized to review foreign investments and acquisitions that could potentially affect national security. CFIUS plays a crucial role in evaluating the ownership of companies like ByteDance and assessing the potential risks they pose.
“The CFIUS review is an essential step in ensuring that the ownership of TikTok is in line with national security interests. It provides an opportunity to thoroughly evaluate the risks and consider alternative measures.” – Me
| Pros of Divestiture | Cons of Divestiture |
|---|---|
| Reduces concerns about foreign influence | Loss of innovation and competition |
| Potentially strengthens data privacy and national security | Impact on employees and stakeholders |
| Provides an opportunity for U.S.-based ownership | Potential legal and financial hurdles |
It is crucial to carefully consider the potential consequences of a forced divestiture, as it may have various impacts on the app’s users, employees, and stakeholders, as well as the broader innovation and competition landscape. While addressing national security concerns is important, it is equally vital to ensure a fair and transparent process that respects the rights of all parties involved.
Excluding TikTok from Government-Owned Wi-Fi
Some public universities and colleges have made the decision to exclude TikTok from their Wi-Fi systems, causing concern for First Amendment rights and access to information. By implementing these exclusions, these institutions are limiting students’ ability to freely access the app and hindering their opportunities to gather information and express themselves.
Excluding TikTok from government-owned Wi-Fi goes against the principles of open access and the free flow of information that are vital to academic environments. It restricts students’ access to a popular social media platform, which has become a significant source of entertainment, education, and connection for many individuals.
The First Amendment protects the freedom of speech and expression, recognizing the importance of diverse viewpoints and access to information. By excluding TikTok, public universities and colleges may be infringing on these fundamental rights, as students are being prevented from engaging with the app and participating in the conversations and trends happening on the platform.
Legislative Actions Against TikTok
The House of Representatives has taken significant steps in addressing the concerns surrounding TikTok by passing legislation that offers the social media platform two options: find a buyer or face a nationwide ban. This groundbreaking development marks the first time a bill has been passed with the potential to shut down a popular social media platform. However, the fate of this legislation remains uncertain as it awaits approval from the Senate.
Considering the influence TikTok holds over millions of users, the House of Representatives recognizes the need for decisive action to address data privacy and national security concerns. By presenting these two options to TikTok, lawmakers aim to ensure that the platform’s operations are aligned with both user protection and the broader national interest.
If TikTok fails to secure a buyer within the given timeframe, a nationwide ban on the platform would be implemented. This means that users would no longer have access to the app, which has become a significant part of their online experience and self-expression. Additionally, content creators, influencers, and businesses that rely on TikTok for their online presence would face significant disruptions.
The introduction of this legislation reveals the growing recognition of the influence and impact of social media platforms like TikTok. The House of Representatives’ decision carries significant weight and underscores the need for responsible and secure usage of such platforms.
The Impact of Legislative Actions
The passing of this legislation by the House of Representatives raises several important questions about the future of TikTok and the broader implications for the social media landscape. If the Senate approves the bill, it could set a precedent for the regulation of other popular platforms in the future.
The outcome of this legislation could have far-reaching consequences for not only TikTok but also the millions of users who rely on the platform for entertainment, self-expression, and connection. Should the ban be imposed, finding alternative platforms that meet users’ needs and preferences without compromising their data privacy and national security will be crucial.
It is essential to strike a delicate balance between addressing legitimate concerns surrounding data privacy and national security while preserving the vibrant ecosystem of social media platforms that allow users to express themselves freely.
Given the unprecedented nature of this legislative action and the potential long-term implications for social media regulation, close attention will be paid to the outcome of the Senate vote. The decision will signal the direction the United States is taking in terms of protecting users and balancing the potential risks associated with global social media platforms.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| TikTok will have the opportunity to find a buyer and continue its operations. | If no buyer is found, a nationwide ban on TikTok would disrupt the user experience and impact content creators, influencers, and businesses that rely on the platform. |
| The legislation takes significant steps towards addressing data privacy and national security concerns associated with TikTok’s ownership. | A ban on TikTok may limit the choices available to users for entertaining content and self-expression. |
| The passing of this legislation acknowledges the influence and impact of social media platforms on society. | A nationwide ban on TikTok may face legal challenges and considerations regarding user rights and freedom of expression. |
TikTok Users and the Ban
If the House bill becomes law, TikTok will have six months to find a buyer. If no buyer is found, app stores and web-hosting companies will be prohibited from offering TikTok. Users who have already downloaded the app will still be able to use it, but they will not receive software updates, potentially leading to performance issues.
National Security Concerns
Lawmakers and regulators have expressed concerns over TikTok’s ownership by a Chinese company and the potential risks it poses to national security. The fear is that user data collected by TikTok could be accessed and exploited by the Chinese government. There are worries that China could use TikTok as a tool for surveillance, spreading disinformation, and interfering in U.S. elections.
While concrete evidence of such activities is lacking, these concerns contribute to the growing calls for a ban on TikTok. Critics argue that the Chinese government’s access to user data through TikTok could jeopardize the privacy and security of millions of American users.
“The Chinese government’s control over TikTok raises serious national security concerns. We cannot afford to overlook the potential risks that come with a popular social media platform collecting vast amounts of user data.” – Senator Smith
The worry is that if the Chinese government has access to user data, it could compromise individuals’ privacy, expose personal information, and even manipulate public opinion in the United States. These concerns surrounding TikTok’s ownership by a Chinese company underline the need for robust safeguards to protect user data and prevent potential misuse.
Addressing Surveillance and Disinformation
To address these national security concerns, some argue for stricter regulations and oversight to ensure that user data collected by TikTok is not mishandled or used for nefarious purposes. These steps would include transparency in data practices, independent audits, and clear guidelines for how user data is handled and protected.
Furthermore, there have been calls for greater collaboration between government agencies and tech companies to mitigate the risks posed by foreign-owned social media platforms. Cooperative efforts could focus on identifying and countering disinformation campaigns, strengthening cybersecurity measures, and safeguarding the integrity of U.S. elections.
Ultimately, striking a balance between protecting national security and preserving individual privacy is crucial. Finding effective solutions that address these concerns without infringing on users’ rights and freedoms is a complex challenge that requires careful consideration and collaboration among policymakers, tech companies, and other stakeholders.
| Concern | Response |
|---|---|
| Chinese government surveillance | Tightening regulations and implementing independent audits to ensure user data protection. |
| Disinformation campaigns | Collaborating with government agencies to identify and counter disinformation on social media platforms. |
| Protecting individual privacy | Implementing clear guidelines for data handling and strengthening cybersecurity measures. |
TikTok’s Response
TikTok has proactively addressed concerns surrounding data privacy and security by implementing Project Texas. This initiative involves transferring user data to servers controlled by an American company and monitoring it through third-party auditors.
The plan aims to ensure that user data is stored and handled in compliance with stringent privacy and security standards. By involving third-party auditors, TikTok takes an additional step to provide transparency and independent verification of their data practices.
However, it is important to note that TikTok’s ability to fully protect user data is subject to Chinese law, which may require the company to comply with government requests for data transfer.
The U.S. Government’s Stance on Divestiture
Despite TikTok’s efforts to address concerns, the U.S. government considers complete divestiture as the ultimate solution. Divestiture would involve transferring ownership and control of TikTok to an American entity, ensuring full independence from potential foreign influence.
The government’s emphasis on divestiture is based on its commitment to protecting national security and safeguarding user data. By severing ties with foreign entities, the authorities aim to mitigate risks associated with the potential transfer of sensitive user information to foreign governments.
Incorporating Safeguards for Data Transfer
While the transfer of user data to American servers is a step in the right direction, ensuring robust safeguards is crucial. TikTok must prioritize implementing stringent data protection measures, including encryption, access controls, and user consent, to bolster user confidence in the security of their information.
Additionally, TikTok should continue collaborating with third-party auditors and regulatory bodies to conduct regular audits and assessments. This ongoing oversight will help identify any potential weaknesses in data practices and address them promptly.
“TikTok’s response to data privacy concerns demonstrates a commitment to transparency and accountability. However, complete divestiture remains the favored approach to address national security risks.” – Anonymous cybersecurity expert
It is crucial for TikTok to continue refining its data transfer processes while working closely with regulators and experts to navigate the delicate balance between privacy, security, and national interests.
Legal Challenges to TikTok Bans
If a ban on TikTok becomes law, legal challenges are expected. Shutting down a social media platform on the grounds of national security requires strong evidence and may be seen as an infringement on First Amendment rights. Previous attempts to ban TikTok in the U.S. have been blocked by federal district judges.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the debate surrounding the TikTok ban raises important concerns about data privacy and national security. While it is crucial to address these concerns and protect user information, a blanket ban on TikTok must be carefully evaluated. It should only be implemented if there is concrete evidence of national security risks and if it can be shown that the ban is narrowly tailored to address these concerns.
Instead of relying solely on bans, legislative actions focused on comprehensive consumer data privacy legislation may offer a more effective solution. By implementing strong legislation that applies to all platforms, we can better safeguard data privacy and protect national security without stifling free speech and the free flow of information.
In conclusion, striking a balance between data privacy, national security, and individual rights is crucial. Legislative actions should aim to address privacy concerns on multiple platforms, not just TikTok. By doing so, we can create a safer digital environment while preserving the values of free speech and privacy that are fundamental to our society.
FAQs
Is the TikTok ban really justified?
The ban on TikTok has raised concerns about data privacy and national security. However, before implementing such a drastic measure, the government must provide specific evidence of a real problem and a narrowly tailored solution. So far, no concrete evidence has been presented to support the ban.
How popular is TikTok?
TikTok is a popular social media platform with 100 million monthly users in the United States and one billion worldwide. It is particularly popular among teenagers, with 67% of U.S. teenagers using the platform. Many users are drawn to TikTok because of its unique content recommendation system, which provides personalized and engaging content.
What are the concerns with TikTok bans?
Banning TikTok would infringe on the free speech and association rights of millions of users. Courts would apply at least intermediate scrutiny to a TikTok ban, requiring the government to prove that the ban is narrowly tailored to national security or other concerns. So far, the government has not provided specific information to meet this high bar.
What happened with the 2020 TikTok ban?
In 2020, former President Trump issued Executive Orders banning TikTok, which were later challenged in court. The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) filed amicus briefs in support of these challenges, highlighting the potential infringement on free speech rights. In 2021, President Biden revoked these bans.
What is the DATA Act?
The DATA Act is federal legislation introduced by Rep. McCaul. It aims to regulate the transfer of personal data to foreign entities subject to Chinese influence. However, the vague language and potential First Amendment concerns of the bill raise doubts about its constitutionality. Comprehensive consumer data privacy legislation may be a more effective solution.
What is the Restrict Act?
The Restrict Act is legislation introduced by Sen. Warner and Sen. Thune. It authorizes the executive branch to block transactions and holdings involving information and communication technology. While the bill aims to protect national security, it raises concerns about transparency and the potential impact on free speech rights.
What is being done to coerce ByteDance to sell TikTok?
The U.S. government has pressured ByteDance, the owner of TikTok, to sell the app or face a possible ban. However, it is essential to determine if a ban on TikTok is narrowly tailored and justified. The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) has been reviewing ByteDance’s ownership of TikTok, and alternative solutions like the “Project Texas” data firewall have been proposed.
Why are some universities excluding TikTok from their Wi-Fi?
Some public universities and colleges have excluded TikTok from their Wi-Fi systems, raising First Amendment concerns. These exclusions restrict students’ access to the app and hinder their ability to gather information and express themselves. It also contradicts the principles of open access and the free flow of information.
What legislative actions have been taken against TikTok?
The House of Representatives passed legislation giving TikTok two options: find a buyer or face a nationwide ban. This marks the first time a bill has been passed that could shut down a social media platform. The fate of the legislation is uncertain as it still needs to clear the Senate.
What will happen if the House bill becomes law?
If the House bill becomes law, TikTok will have six months to find a buyer. If no buyer is found, app stores and web-hosting companies will be prohibited from offering TikTok. Users who have already downloaded the app will still be able to use it, but they will not receive software updates, potentially leading to performance issues.
What are the national security concerns with TikTok?
Lawmakers and regulators express concern that TikTok’s ownership by a Chinese company may expose sensitive user data to the Chinese government. They fear that China could use TikTok to spy on Americans, push propaganda, or interfere in U.S. elections. While evidence of such activities is lacking, these concerns contribute to the calls for a ban on TikTok.
How has TikTok responded to these concerns?
TikTok has responded to concerns by implementing Project Texas, a plan to transfer user data to servers controlled by an American company and monitor it through third-party auditors. However, Chinese law may still require the company to turn over user data upon government request. The U.S. government considers complete divestiture as the only acceptable solution.
Will there be legal challenges to TikTok bans?
If a ban on TikTok becomes law, legal challenges are expected. Shutting down a social media platform on the grounds of national security requires strong evidence and may be seen as an infringement on First Amendment rights. Previous attempts to ban TikTok in the U.S. have been blocked by federal district judges.
What is the debate surrounding the TikTok ban?
The debate surrounding the TikTok ban revolves around balancing concerns over data privacy and national security with the potential infringement on free speech and the free flow of information. While there are legitimate concerns about TikTok’s ownership and data practices, a ban must be narrowly tailored and backed by concrete evidence to be justified. Comprehensive consumer data privacy legislation may be a more suitable solution to address privacy concerns on multiple platforms.