Tech
Canada prohibits local usage of Tiktok app over security reasons
ByteDance’s operations in Canada, notably the offices of TikTok Technology Canada, Inc., have been ordered to cease by Canada because of national security concerns.
However, customers can still download, utilize, and produce content for TikTok, and businesses can still advertise on the app, therefore those dangers do not apply to the app itself.
“The decision to use a social media application or platform is a personal choice,” said François-Philippe Champagne, the country’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, in a statement.
Further details regarding the security risks were not included in the announcement. But for years, the company’s handling of user data on the platform has drawn criticism.
READ ALSO: TikTok cuts hundreds of jobs as it shifts towards deployment of AI content moderation
While reacting to the ban, TikTok in a statement vowed to challenge the order in court stating that it will remain available for creators to find an audience, and explore new interests.
“Shutting down TikTok’s Canadian offices and destroying hundreds of well-paying local jobs is not in anyone’s best interest, and today’s shutdown order will do just that,” a spokesperson said in a statement.
“We will challenge this order in court. The TikTok platform will remain available for creators to find an audience, explore new interests, and for businesses to thrive.”
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