A significant number of TikTok users in the United States are reconsidering their engagement with the platform following its recent structural changes and updated terms of service. Many are voicing apprehensions about privacy violations and potential censorship, particularly after the company restructured to form a US-based entity, TikTok USDS Joint Venture, in a bid to remain operational in the country.
Structural Changes Raise Eyebrows
The reorganisation of TikTok, owned by Chinese firm ByteDance, has placed the app under scrutiny. The new venture aims to mitigate fears surrounding data security and potential bans, a concern that has loomed since former President Donald Trump first threatened to prohibit the app five years ago. The joint venture involves significant American stakeholders, including Oracle—led by Trump associate Larry Ellison—along with private equity firm Silver Lake and Abu Dhabi’s MGX, who collectively hold an 80.1% stake. ByteDance retains a minority share of 19.9%.
This transformation comes alongside updates to TikTok’s terms and conditions, which have sparked alarm among users. Reports indicate that the average number of deletions of the app surged by 195% from January 22 to January 28, a stark increase compared to previous months, as reported by Sensor Tower.
Privacy Issues Front and Centre
Users have taken particular issue with the data collection practices outlined in the new terms. The app now explicitly states that it collects detailed user data, including sensitive information related to racial and ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientation, and precise location data—unless users opt out. Julia, a 32-year-old caregiver from Washington, articulated her distrust, stating, “I trust Oracle and Ellison about as much as I trust eating a raw burger on a hot summer day.” Her swift decision to delete the app reflects a growing sentiment of unease among the platform’s user base.
Concerns have also emerged regarding content censorship. Following the tragic killing of Alex Pretti by ICE agents on January 24, several creators reported that their content critical of the federal agency was being suppressed. Comedian Meg Stalter expressed frustration after her video advocating for Christians to speak out against ICE was not uploaded, prompting her to remove the app from her devices. She asserted in an Instagram post that, with new ownership, creators are now facing increased censorship and monitoring.
Political Implications and Investigations
The political ramifications of TikTok’s new alignment have not gone unnoticed. California Governor Gavin Newsom has raised alarms about the potential suppression of anti-Trump content, announcing an investigation into whether TikTok is breaching California law. He stated on social media, “Following TikTok’s sale to a Trump-aligned business group, our office has received reports, and independently confirmed instances, of suppressed content critical of President Trump.”
In response to the technical issues many users have experienced, TikTok USDS Joint Venture attributed these problems to a power outage at a US data centre. On January 27, the company assured users that efforts were being made to restore full functionality to the platform.
Creators Seek Alternatives
Many content creators are already exploring other platforms to diversify their online presence. Keara Sullivan, a comedian with over 500,000 followers, expressed her dismay at having to reconsider her relationship with TikTok, which had significantly contributed to her career advancement. “I’m very transparent about the fact that where I am in my career is largely because of TikTok,” she said. However, she acknowledged the need for creators to establish a broader digital footprint, remarking, “In the internet ecosphere, you kind of have to create these different avenues for yourself, because you can’t rely on one platform.”
With rising concerns about censorship and data privacy, Sullivan and others are shifting their focus to ensure their content reaches audiences without compromising their values or security.
Why it Matters
The ongoing turmoil surrounding TikTok highlights a broader conversation about trust, privacy, and the control of information on social media platforms. As users grapple with the implications of the app’s new ownership and revised terms, the potential for censorship and data misuse becomes increasingly critical. This situation serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between technology, governance, and individual rights in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. The decisions made today by users and creators could shape the future of online content creation and engagement, signalling a pivotal moment for social media discourse.
