Countries that have imposed restrictions on TikTok network

The TikTok network, owned by the Chinese company Bywedance, has long indicated that it does not share data with the Chinese government and that its data is not stored in China. TickTok also refutes accusations that it collects users' data more than other social media firms, and insists it operates independently from its management.

But many countries continue to be cautious about platforms and connections with China.

But what are the countries and regions that have imposed restrictions on the TikTok network or have banned its use?

INDIA

In 2020 India completely blocked the use of the TikTok network and several other Chinese apps, including the WeChat text app, about security and privacy concerns. The move came after a clash of Indian and Chinese troops at the controversial border in Himalayas, where 20 Indian soldiers were killed and dozens more injured. Companies were given a chance to react to questions about privacy and security. The blockade became permanent in 2021.

TAIWAN

In December 2022, Taiwan banned the use of the TikTok network in the public sector after the Federal Bureau of Investigation warned that the Chinese network posed a danger to national security. Government equipment is not allowed to use Chinese software, including apps like TikTok, Douyin, Xiaohongshu.

STATES UNITED

The United States said this week that government agencies have a 30-day deadline to clear the TikTok app from government equipment as a result of security concerns for user data. Meanwhile, some American lawmakers are demanding that the app be blocked throughout the country.

China criticised Washington's decision, calling it abuse of power and oppression of foreign companies. More than half of American countries have banned the use of an app on government equipment.

CANADA

After Washington, Canada announced on Monday that equipment issued by the government should not use the TikTok network, saying it poses an unacceptable “risk to” for privacy and security. Government devices will not be able to download the app in the future.

BA EVROPIAN SCRIPTURE

The European Parliament, the European Commission and the EU Council, the bloc's three main bodies, have decided to ban the app on government equipment. The European Parliament's announcement of the ban goes into effect on March 20th, while recommending lawmakers and employees to erase the app from their personal equipment.

PAKISTAN

Pakistani authorities have temporarily banned the TikTok app at least four times since October 2020, citing concerns that the app promotes immoral content.