A crucial legal battle over the future of TikTok in the country is kicking off today as oral arguments begin in a Washington court, where attorneys for both sides will present their cases.
‘A significant risk to national security’
At the heart of the dispute is a US law that requires TikTok to sever its ties with its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, or face a ban in the United States. The law, signed by President Joe Biden in April, seeks to restrict the popular social media app, used by 170 million Americans, due to its perceived national security risks associated with its Chinese ties.
In legal filings submitted this summer, the Justice Department outlined its primary concerns regarding TikTok. The government alleges that TikTok collects vast amounts of user data, including sensitive information that could be accessed by the Chinese government. Additionally, the US government claims that TikTok’s algorithm is susceptible to manipulation by Chinese authorities, potentially allowing them to influence the content users see on the platform.
‘The law is unconstitutional and violates Americans’ free speech rights,’ says TikTok
TikTok has consistently denied the US government’s allegations that it shares user data with the Chinese government. The company argues that the law violates its First Amendment rights and that it has taken significant steps to address national security concerns.
Additionally, TikTok’s legal team has asserted that some members of Congress sought to punish the platform due to perceived propaganda. The company has also emphasized that divestment is not a viable option and that a ban would result in the app’s closure by January 19th if the courts do not intervene.
The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for the future of social media and the relationship between the US and China.
