The US government has extended the deadline for TikTok’s sale to non-Chinese buyers, giving ByteDance and potential buyers more time to finalize a deal amid concerns about national security and data protection.
The United States government has extended the deadline for the sale of TikTok, a popular social media app, to non-Chinese buyers. This development comes as part of an effort by the Trump administration to address concerns about national security and data protection.
TikTok is a social media app that allows users to create and share short-form videos.
Launched in China in 2016 as Douyin, it has since become one of the most popular apps worldwide.
With over a billion active users, TikTok has surpassed other social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat.
Its algorithm-driven 'For You' page showcases content tailored to individual users' interests.
The app's popularity can be attributed to its creative freedom, allowing users to express themselves through music, dance, and comedy.
In 2020, the US Congress passed a law that required ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, to either divest or sell its assets in the United States. The law was enacted due to concerns that the app’s Chinese ownership could be used to manipulate Americans and compromise national security.
On Friday, President Donald Trump announced that he will sign an executive order extending the deadline for the sale of TikTok. This marks the second time the president has delayed the ban or sale of the app. The new deadline is set at 75 days from now, allowing ByteDance and potential buyers more time to finalize a deal.
Several factors have contributed to the extension of the deadline. Trump hinted that he might lessen trade penalties on China if ByteDance were to approve a sale. This move could potentially facilitate a deal between the two countries. Additionally, the president expressed concerns about TikTok going ‘dark,’ suggesting that he wants to maintain access to the app’s data and services.
Several potential buyers have been reported to be interested in acquiring TikTok, including a consortium of investors led by Oracle, asset manager Blackstone, Amazon, Walmart, billionaire Frank McCourt, a crypto foundation, and the founder of OnlyFans. These companies see huge appeal in owning the app and its secretive algorithm.
ByteDance has stated that it has no plans to sell TikTok and has previously denied the possibility of divestiture due to commercial, technological, and legal reasons. The company’s response to the executive order suggests that any agreement would be subject to approval under Chinese law.
The extension of the deadline raises questions about national security and data protection. Concerns remain about whether a non-Chinese buyer could compromise sensitive information about American users. The Trump administration’s efforts to address these concerns are ongoing, with the new deadline providing more time for negotiations between ByteDance and potential buyers.
Data protection plays a crucial role in maintaining national security.
Governments collect vast amounts of personal data to prevent terrorism, cyber threats, and other crimes.
This data is often shared between agencies, raising concerns about privacy and misuse.
To balance security needs with individual rights, many countries have implemented data protection regulations, such as the EU's GDPR.
These laws require transparency in data collection and usage, as well as strict access controls.
Effective data protection measures help prevent unauthorized access, ensuring national security while safeguarding citizens' personal information.
The extension of the deadline for TikTok’s sale to non-Chinese buyers highlights the complexities of national security and data protection in the digital age. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether a deal can be reached that addresses concerns about American users’ data and security.
- theguardian.com | Trump extends deadline for TikTok sale to non Chinese buyer to avoid ban
