TikTok Might Be Getting Banned in the US, What Does This Mean for us Aussies?

Please don’t ban TikTok in Aus😦

Everyone’s favourite app to scroll and watch content on, TikTok, is at risk of getting banned in the United States.

Here’s what we know so far.

 

Why is it getting banned?

President of the United States, Joe Biden signed a bill on 24 April 2024 to ban TikTok in the US, if its owners Chinese company ByteDance, don’t sell the platform within a year.

Politicians in the US  believe that TikTok can be used as a tool for propaganda, influencing users’ opinions and beliefs for profit as well as security risks.

These are the reasons for the ban.

We’re just using it to watch funny animal videos🤭

TikTok responds to the ban.

TikTok has sued the US government as a result of them facing a national ban.

TikTok has argued that the bill goes against the First Amendment in the US constitution, which states that the government can’t make laws that go against the people’s freedom of speech.

The case is expected to reach the supreme court.

It's worth noting TikTok has previously tried to sue the US state of Montana for banning TikTok. Yikes.

How will this impact Australian users?

Australian users would no longer be able to see any new content from their fave American creators as the app would eventually get new updates and becomes unusable for American users.

These creators may have to move to other social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube, meaning us Aussies would follow to continue seeing their content and stay relevant.

Australian creators could lose their American followers and fan bases if they don’t move to another platform.

 

Is TikTok getting banned in Australia?

The passing of the bill in the US has sparked a debate in Australia. TikTok has already been banned on official government devices down under.

The main concern is the way that data from Australian users could be sent to China.

A ban in Australia, would result in a loss of income for creators who use TikTok for creating sponsored content and brand deals, as well as those who use the app to connect and grow their business.

However, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said the government currently has no plans to ban the app.

Thank goodness for that! 🙌