What TikTok could look like for users in the U.S. — and around the world — if it goes dark
As the countdown to the U.S. Supreme Court decision on the ban of TikTok continues, the popular Chinese-owned social media platform is gearing up for a potential shutdown on Sunday. With over 170 million American users, the impending ban could have significant implications for the TikTok community in the United States.
While American users will not be required to delete the app from their devices, they may experience a gradual deterioration in the app’s functionality. Tech analyst Carmi Levy predicts a gradual decline in user experience, stating that “if you live in the U.S., the experience is going to be a lot worse over time than it is now.”
Here are some potential consequences of a TikTok ban:
1. Removal from App Stores: The U.S. government may compel Apple and Google to remove TikTok from their app stores, preventing U.S. users from downloading the app. Failure to comply with this mandate could result in fines for the tech giants.
2. App Updates Cease: Users who already have the app may no longer receive updates, leading to unresolved bugs, glitches, and the absence of new features, making TikTok less functional and enjoyable to use.
3. Increased Vulnerability to Hackers: Without regular updates to address security issues, TikTok users could become more susceptible to hacks and cybersecurity breaches, compromising their personal information.
4. Notification from TikTok: In the event of a ban, TikTok will notify existing U.S. users about the legal restrictions and provide them with the option to download their personal data before the app becomes inoperable.
Cybersecurity expert Ritesh Kotak suggests that users may encounter a blank screen or perpetual loading wheel if they attempt to access TikTok post-ban, rendering the app unusable.
As users contemplate potential workarounds, such as using a VPN to access TikTok, it is crucial to note that the app may still track users through geolocation data, and the U.S. government could implement measures to block TikTok’s IP addresses, hindering access.
The disappearance of 170 million U.S. users could have far-reaching implications for content creators and global TikTok users. With a significant portion of TikTok’s audience originating from the U.S., the absence of American users could diminish the app’s value for international users.
In a bid to salvage TikTok, President-elect Donald Trump has shown interest in intervening, and TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew is reportedly attending his upcoming inauguration, signaling a potential effort to foster a positive relationship with the incoming administration.
As the fate of TikTok hangs in the balance, content creators and users alike are left to ponder the potential repercussions of a ban and explore alternative platforms to continue sharing their creativity and connecting with audiences.
