Pros & Cons to Banning Tik Tok in America

TikTok is a social media platform that has been gaining immense popularity since it launched in the U.S. in 2016. However, there has been much controversy surrounding the app, with concerns ranging from data privacy issues to the spread of misinformation and espionage from China. Many elected officials have called for a ban on TikTok in America. Before we scrutinize how the social app is administered by its Chinese parent company, it is important to acknowledge that the Chinese have a different interpretation of data privacy based on the governance of communism.

Let's take a look at the pros and cons of banning TikTok in America.

Pros:

1. Data privacy concerns: TikTok has been accused of collecting data on its users and sharing it with the Chinese government. This has raised concerns about national security and data privacy. By banning TikTok, the US government could protect the personal information of American citizens.

2. Cybersecurity risks: According to a NY Times article, Cybersecurity experts have warned that TikTok's security protocols are weak and that the app could be hacked. A ban on TikTok could reduce the risk of cyber attacks on US citizens.

3. Protecting children: TikTok has been criticized for its lack of moderation and parental controls, which has led to the sharing of inappropriate content among children. A ban on TikTok could help protect children from exposure to inappropriate content.

4. National security concerns: The US government has expressed concern that the Chinese government could use TikTok to spread propaganda and influence the US election. A ban on TikTok could help prevent foreign interference in US politics.

Cons:

1. Censorship: A ban on TikTok could be seen as an act of censorship, infringing on the first amendment right- the freedom of expression of American citizens who use the app.

2. Economic impact: TikTok has a large user base in the US, and a ban could have a significant economic impact. Many US businesses, influencers, and content producers rely on TikTok for advertising and marketing purposes, and a ban could hurt their bottom line.

3. Loss of entertainment: TikTok has become a source of entertainment and creativity for many Americans, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. A ban on TikTok could deprive Americans of a popular form of entertainment.

4. Precedent for government intervention: A ban on TikTok could set a precedent for government intervention in social media platforms, which could have broader implications for freedom of expression online.

The decision to ban TikTok in America is a complex one, with pros and cons on both sides. While concerns over data privacy and national security are valid, a ban could also have significant economic and social consequences. But ultimately, the future of Tik Tok seems to be based on how the political climate presents to be in the U.S.