TikTok Banned By New York City On Government Devices Over Security Concerns

TikTok has consistently refuted claims that it collaborates with the Chinese government to access US user data.

Notably, former President Donald Trump pursued a ban on new TikTok downloads in 2020.

In a move that echoes the actions of several US municipalities and states, New York City has officially barred the use of TikTok on government-owned devices, citing apprehensions over security. The popular short-form video platform, with a user base exceeding 150 million Americans, falls under the ownership of Chinese tech conglomerate ByteDance. This decision is part of a growing trend that has seen US lawmakers advocate for prohibitions on the app due to potential Chinese government influence.

According to a statement released by the administration of Mayor Eric Adams, TikTok was identified as a potential "security threat to the city's technical networks." As a result, all New York City agencies are mandated to uninstall the application within a 30-day window. This action entails a revocation of app access for city employees, extending to both the app and its corresponding website, on devices and networks owned by the city. This move follows a prior decision by New York State to bar TikTok on mobile devices issued by the state.

TikTok has consistently refuted claims that it collaborates with the Chinese government to access US user data. The company emphasised that it remains committed to safeguarding the privacy and security of its users. US security officials, including FBI Director Christopher Wray and CIA Director William Burns, have publicly voiced concerns about TikTok's potential to pose security risks. In March, Wray expressed apprehensions that China could potentially utilise TikTok as a means to manipulate software on countless devices and manipulate narratives to sow discord among Americans. He underlined that the app's usage raises significant national security implications.

Notably, former President Donald Trump pursued a ban on new TikTok downloads in 2020. However, this effort was met with legal challenges that ultimately prevented the ban from being enforced.

The adoption of measures against TikTok on government devices is a widespread phenomenon across the U.S., with numerous states and cities implementing similar restrictions. Montana, for instance, recently passed legislation that will prohibit the use of the app throughout the state starting January 1. However, this legislative move is currently facing legal challenges.

A recent Reuters/Ipsos survey unveiled that almost half of American adults are in favour of a TikTok ban, underscoring the ongoing concerns surrounding the platform's security and potential foreign influence.