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Unmasking TikTok: The Hidden Risks Behind the World's Favorite App

Tom Tardy

Updated: Jan 23

Here’s a detailed report on why TikTok is considered unsafe by critics, outlining the major concerns surrounding the platform and the evidence behind these claims.


TikTok

1. Data Collection Practices

TikTok collects a large amount of user data, which raises concerns about privacy and security. Here’s what is known:

Types of Data TikTok Collects:

  • Basic Information: Name, age, email, and phone number.

  • Device Information: Device model, operating system, app activity, and unique device identifiers.

  • Location Data: GPS coordinates, IP address, and SIM card details.

  • Behavioral Data: Interaction history (e.g., watch time, likes, shares, comments), search history, and content preferences.

  • Biometric Data (in some regions): Facial and voice data collected via filters and video uploads.

Concerns:

  • Extent of Data: TikTok collects more data than necessary for its functionality, often going beyond what is typical for social media apps.

  • Inferred Profiles: The app builds highly detailed profiles of users, which could be exploited for targeted advertising or manipulation.

  • Potential Government Access: ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, is based in China, where the government can compel companies to share user data under Chinese law.


2. National Security Risks

Chinese Government Connection:

  • TikTok’s critics argue that ByteDance’s headquarters in China makes it subject to Chinese laws, including the 2017 National Intelligence Law, which mandates cooperation with government intelligence agencies.

  • Even if ByteDance denies sharing data, critics fear it could be compelled to do so secretly.

Evidence of Risk:

  • Employee Access: In December 2022, ByteDance admitted that some employees improperly accessed U.S. journalists' data to track potential sources of leaks.

  • Data Transfers: A 2021 report by security researchers at Citizen Lab found that TikTok’s data-sharing practices were similar to those of other social media platforms, but concerns remain about what ByteDance does with this data once collected.

  • Espionage Concerns: Lawmakers worry TikTok could be used as a tool for spying, particularly on government employees or officials using the app.


3. Algorithmic Manipulation

TikTok’s algorithm is extremely powerful in determining what content users see. This raises concerns about how it could be used for manipulation or propaganda.

Potential for Harm:

  • Spread of Misinformation: TikTok’s algorithm can amplify false or misleading content, especially on politically sensitive issues or public health topics.

  • Censorship: Reports suggest TikTok has censored content critical of the Chinese government, such as discussions about the Hong Kong protests or Xinjiang’s treatment of Uyghurs.

  • Influence Campaigns: There are fears the app could be used to promote content favorable to certain governments or suppress opposing views, particularly during elections or geopolitical conflicts.

Evidence:

  • Investigations have shown that TikTok’s moderation policies were, at times, influenced by Chinese interests, such as banning videos referencing Tiananmen Square.


4. Inadequate Data Protection

TikTok has faced criticism for insufficient measures to safeguard user data:

  • Cross-Border Data Sharing: Despite TikTok’s claims, reports indicate that user data has been accessible from China.

  • Security Breaches: Security vulnerabilities in the app have been exposed, such as those that could allow hackers to manipulate accounts or retrieve sensitive data.

Examples:

  • In 2020, TikTok was caught accessing the clipboard content on iOS devices, raising concerns about unauthorized data access.

  • Multiple nations have banned TikTok on government devices, citing fears that sensitive data could be compromised.


5. Risks to Children and Teens

TikTok has a massive user base among younger audiences, making them particularly vulnerable to exploitation and harm.

Key Issues:

  • Exposure to Harmful Content: TikTok’s algorithm can expose young users to inappropriate content, such as videos promoting eating disorders, self-harm, or risky challenges.

  • Addiction Risks: The platform is designed to keep users engaged for long periods, which can negatively impact mental health, particularly for teenagers.

  • Predation Risks: There have been reports of predators using TikTok to contact and groom minors.

Legal Actions:

  • In 2019, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) fined TikTok $5.7 million for illegally collecting data from children under 13 without parental consent.


6. Ethical Concerns in Content Moderation

TikTok has been criticized for its content moderation practices, which sometimes reflect political or ideological biases.

Examples:

  • Censorship Allegations: TikTok was accused of suppressing content from marginalized groups, such as LGBTQ+ creators or individuals with disabilities, under the guise of preventing bullying.

  • Unethical Practices: Internal guidelines leaked in 2020 revealed that moderators were instructed to limit the reach of content from “undesirable” users, including those deemed poor, overweight, or disabled.


7. Mental Health Impacts

TikTok’s addictive nature and algorithmic targeting can harm users' mental health.

Concerns:

  • FOMO and Anxiety: TikTok’s endless stream of curated content can lead to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety.

  • Harmful Trends: The app has hosted dangerous viral challenges, such as the “blackout challenge,” which has been linked to injuries and deaths among children.


8. Government Responses

Many governments have taken action to limit TikTok’s influence or ban it altogether:

  • United States: Federal and state governments have banned TikTok on government devices. A nationwide ban is under consideration.

  • European Union: EU institutions banned TikTok on official devices in 2023.

  • India: TikTok has been permanently banned since 2020, alongside other Chinese apps.

  • Canada, UK, Australia: Similar bans have been imposed on government devices.


TikTok’s Response to Criticism

TikTok has attempted to address safety and security concerns with measures such as:

  1. Data Localization:

    • Initiatives like Project Texas (U.S.) and Project Clover (EU) aim to route user data to local servers.

  2. Transparency:

    • TikTok has opened Transparency Centers to allow regulators to review its algorithms and moderation practices.

  3. Parental Controls:

    • Features like Family Pairing allow parents to monitor and limit their children’s use of TikTok.



Stay tuned for tomorrow post on the TikTok replacement RedNote....

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