TikTok Shutdown in the U.S., Users and Creators Express Concern

Rtv News

19 Jan 2025, 10:59

Photo: Collected

The popular video-sharing app TikTok has ceased operations in the United States. The app stopped functioning just hours before the ban was set to take effect. British news outlet BBC reported this on Sunday (January 19).

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According to the report, users in the U.S. are unable to access the app and are being shown a message stating, "Sorry, TikTok services are not currently available. A law has been enacted prohibiting TikTok's operation in the United States. Unfortunately, this means you cannot use TikTok at this time."

TikTok has over 170 million users in the U.S., but American lawmakers have long expressed dissatisfaction with its China-based parent company, ByteDance. The U.S. administration has raised concerns that the Chinese government could use TikTok to spy on American citizens.

On Friday, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the ruling to ban TikTok in the interest of national security. Although the Supreme Court's decision is being respected, newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump has offered a glimmer of hope for TikTok’s future. He has assured that a political solution will be sought to keep the app operational.

Reuters reported that Trump is considering issuing an executive order to suspend the sale or ban law for 60 to 90 days, during which time he hopes to find a political solution to allow TikTok to continue operating in the U.S.

TikTok’s CEO Shou Zi Chew thanked Trump for this initiative, stating that his commitment is an important step towards protecting freedom of expression.

In a video message to users, Chew urged them to stand by the company to keep TikTok running.

Meanwhile, TikTok users across various states, including New York, Minnesota, and Michigan, have expressed concern over the ban. They argue that TikTok is not just an entertainment platform but also a source of income for many. Therefore, the ban could not only harm users but also impact the U.S. economy.

Business owners and content creators are trying to expand their presence on other platforms, but many view the TikTok ban as a significant setback.

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