Is TikTok getting banned in the US? What we know about the Supreme Court’s upcoming Verdict
The U.S. Supreme Court is set to decide TikTok’s fate under ByteDance ownership. Could the app face a nationwide ban or divestment? Here’s what we know about the case.
The fate of TikTok, the widely popular social media platform owned by Chinese company ByteDance, hangs in the balance as the U.S. Supreme Court deliberates a crucial case. At the heart of the debate is whether TikTok poses a significant national security threat due to concerns about its data-sharing practices with the Chinese government.
With over 170 million U.S. users, TikTok’s future could be decided by the Supreme Court’s interpretation of the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act (PAFACA), which mandates the app’s divestment or potential ban.
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Is TikTok getting banned from the United States?
The Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act was enacted in April 2024 to address security risks posed by foreign-owned applications. Under this law, TikTok must be sold to a U.S.-based entity or face a nationwide ban by January 19, 2025.
The U.S. government argues that TikTok’s ownership by ByteDance could allow the Chinese government to access sensitive user data, posing a risk to national security. This has prompted calls for divestment or outright banning of the app.
The possible ban of TikTok in the US could benefit other social media platforms like Instagram. Photo: Freepik
TikTok Ban: Possible outcomes in the Supreme Court of the US
Scenario 1: Divestment of TikTok
If the Supreme Court upholds PAFACA, ByteDance will be required to sell TikTok’s U.S. operations. Potential buyers include major tech companies or private investment groups.
Scenario 2: A Nationwide Ban
Failure to comply with the divestment requirement would result in TikTok being banned across the United States. This would significantly disrupt the platform’s massive U.S. user base and advertising ecosystem.
Scenario 3: TikTok’s victory
If the Supreme Court rules in TikTok’s favor, the app would continue to operate under ByteDance ownership. However, this outcome might intensify political and regulatory scrutiny.
What are the arguments presented in court by TikTok and the US Government?
TikTok’s legal team contends that PAFACA violates the First Amendment, as the platform serves as a medium for free expression. They also argue that the forced divestment infringes upon constitutional protections for businesses.
On the other hand, U.S. officials emphasize that the potential for data misuse justifies PAFACA, framing the law as a necessary measure to protect citizens and national security.
This possible ban of the Chinese application could have consequences. A ban would render TikTok inaccessible in the U.S., pushing its millions of users to alternative platforms like Instagram and YouTube Shorts.
Rival platforms stand to benefit from TikTok’s absence, potentially gaining market share and increased advertising revenue.
