With the US threatening a TikTok ban, creators, influencers, and small businesses are concerned for their future.
Where is TikTok Banned?
Here is a list below of the countries TikTok is currently banned:
- Afghanistan
- Australia
- Canada
- Denmark
- Belgium
- France
- India
- Latvia
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Pakistan
- Taiwan
- United Kingdom
- United States
The governments listed in the countries above have banned the popular video-sharing app TikTok from devices issued to staff.
Why Is TikTok Getting Banned?
Although the platform grew largely in just a small amount of time, government officials are worried about the app linking to China and breaching privacy and security. There has also been news on illegal selling on the app and video content not applicable for children to see.
People fear that sensitive information will be leaked once the app is downloaded. Even though TikTok disputes these claims and accusations to be false, there is still anxiety around the idea of users’ data.
TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew faced questioning from members of Congress in late March on the privacy of the app, as small business owner Chad Spangler watched in frustration. Not only are small business owners worried about the app, but the creator economy is also facing worries of its own.
The Creator Economy
Since TikTok launched during Covid, according to Influencer Marketing Hub, the creator economy has boomed past $100 billion annually. Creators and influencers have been able to connect and create content, collaborations, and partnerships with brands as well as use TikTok to promote and drive traffic to their sites.
However, now there is the worry that with the banning of TikTok, how will these top creators make an income?
Platforms such as Instagram and YouTube will see a bigger flux of TikTok users appearing on the platform as TikTok is shut down in more countries. The discussion of the app’s security and privacy has had a chain effect on users using the app to promote their other distribution channels.
If you are a TikTok influencer or creator, then now is the time to think about expanding your content onto other platforms. The future of TikTok is yet to be confirmed so stay updated on ITP Live to find out more information.
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