TikTok Ban: With a looming TikTok ban set for January 19, uncertainty surrounds the app’s future in the US. While the outcome remains unclear, users should note that even if the app isn’t immediately inaccessible, its functionality may face serious setbacks in the near future.
Will TikTok Users Be Locked Out?
As reported by TIME, TikTok could face a complete shutdown. During a recent Supreme Court hearing, the company’s legal team indicated the app might “go dark” if the ban isn’t delayed.
Reports suggest that starting Sunday, users attempting to access TikTok may encounter a message notifying them of the ban and offering a chance to download their data. This would mirror the experience of Indian users after TikTok’s 2020 ban.
The ban’s legal framework prohibits app stores and third-party services from hosting TikTok, but existing users might retain access temporarily if ByteDance, the parent company, strictly adheres to the rules.
However, TikTok would be unable to issue updates, leaving the app prone to bugs, slower performance, and security vulnerabilities. Over time, these issues could erode the user experience, leading to an inevitable decline as people migrate to other platforms.
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Could VPNs Be A Workaround?
Some users might consider using VPNs (virtual private networks) to bypass restrictions. By masking their location, VPNs can make it appear as though users are accessing the app from a region where TikTok isn’t banned.
However, this approach comes with risks, reported TIME. For instance, when Brazil banned X (formerly Twitter), VPN demand surged despite potential legal repercussions, including hefty fines.
Can Government Action Prevent TikTok Ban?
Efforts to delay or halt the ban face significant challenges. Massachusetts Senator Ed Markey and other lawmakers recently introduced a bill to extend the deadline by 270 days, but given the bipartisan support behind the original ban, the proposal may not pass in time.
President-elect Donald Trump has expressed interest in pausing the ban to explore a political resolution. If ByteDance begins the process of selling TikTok, Trump could temporarily halt enforcement of the ban. However, the company has consistently stated it has no plans to sell.
Even if the President directs the Justice Department to avoid enforcing the ban, this wouldn’t prevent potential future legal consequences for TikTok or its service providers. Legal experts suggest most companies involved in maintaining TikTok’s operations might prioritise compliance over risk, further limiting the app’s viability.
Although there are theoretical ways for users to continue accessing TikTok, the platform’s performance is likely to degrade without updates and maintenance. Government intervention appears increasingly unlikely, leaving creators and users in search of alternative platforms. Unless unexpected developments arise, this week could mark a turning point for the app in the United States.
