I don't know the ins/outs of TikTok either. But I did have an account for a few years. I deleted it. It is more than just a messaging app, video app, etc.... Many people make a lot of money. Influencers. And they get paid well. People use it for many various reasons. Entertainment, information, a job. The sheer numbers of people who use TikTok has led to it's own digital, but very real, eco-system. Banning it is going to affect millions of people.
To be honest, in a general sense. it is NOT different than Facebook, IG, WhatsApp, Threads (all Meta subsidiaries). Meta does the same thing. They make money off of yours and my info. We use it free but they support employees, infrastructure, etc...? The sell our info to 100s and 100s of data brokers. The difference I think is, WHO is really in control.
The Chinese government is not known for their benevolent and caring attitudes. They exploit. They want total control. They are harsh towards people or groups that go against the party line. They claim they do not retain personal info. They have been caught red-handed lying. Even their spin-off group "Bytedance". They censor (shape) a lot of content on TikTok. They manipulate free-speech or lack thereof.
China has found so many ways to influence the world by non-violent means. For example, 75% of the OTC drugs in your local Wal-Mart come from China. The Fentanyl coming across our border - China. That's your potential chemical warfare. And then there's all those spy balloons (America has them too). Recently, another Chinese messaging app is exploding and adding users faster than TikTok called "Red Note". With MUCH less privacy controls for users. If you use TikTok then no doubt, the CCCP has all your info. But again, so does META ... ha! I personally wish the ban on TikTok would stand. Trump is already bowing to pressure by saying he is going to negotiate a deal - he sees an opportunity to JUMP on the issue and looked at as the savior - VOTES. And I am a Trump supporter. But not this. Just random thoughts...
