As per recent reports, the popularity of social media giant TikTok might face a significant downturn in the United States. This possibility arises as President Joe Biden prepares to set the wheels in motion for a 270-day countdown, a decision that could lead to a potential ban of the video-sharing platform in the country if its Chinese owners fail to divest.
The groundwork for this move was laid out in legislation that mandated TikTok’s Chinese proprietors to divest. This bill was swiftly passed through Congress with the Senate approving it late Tuesday as part of a broader foreign-aid package. The incumbent President is expected to give his assent to this legislation on Wednesday. This move, apart from starting the countdown, signifies TikTok’s initiation into a crucial struggle to prevent a US ban.
Renowned worldwide for its short-form videos, TikTok has risen to prominence over the past few years, metamorphosing into a staple app for many across the globe. The platform’s increasing popularity, however, has been a reason for concern for various countries citing national security threats. It should be noted that the proposed US ban isn’t the first of its kind. The app faced a similar scenario in India where it was eventually banned.
While these updates unfold, it is pertinent for the legal community, particularly those working with tech companies and on issues pertaining to data privacy and national security, to monitor these developments closely. The outcome of this situation could significantly impact the functioning of multinational companies, specifically those originating from China and operating in the US, or vice versa.
For more detailed updates and information on this developing news, you can review the original report on Bloomberg Law.