New York City has banned the use of TikTok on devices owned by the city, citing security worries. The city’s cybersecurity department evaluated the situation and determined that using TikTok could potentially harm the security of its technology network.
NYC Enforces TikTok Ban on Government Devices for Security
As of the directive’s issuance, immediate effect is given to the prohibition, forbidding city employees from downloading, utilizing, or accessing TikTok’s websites on any devices owned by the city.
In a statement to The Verge, a representative of the New York City government emphasized the importance of secure social media use for the city’s populace and acknowledged the consistent efforts of the NYC Cyber Command to safeguard the data of its residents. The directive aligns with guidance provided by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget, which had previously curtailed TikTok’s usage on government devices. Moreover, recent federal legislation further supports the city’s stance against the application.
The concern stems from the app’s connection to Chinese tech giant ByteDance, raising worries that the app might facilitate data collection for potential surveillance purposes. Additionally, ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, is facing a lawsuit for collecting sensitive data, including face scans, through its app CapCut. These fears have led multiple U.S. states to limit TikTok’s usage on government-owned devices, and Montana notably went a step further by enacting a statewide ban.
TikTok has been partially or completely banned in the following countries: Afghanistan, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, India, and New Zealand. In the Netherlands, although not an outright ban, officials are recommended to avoid using it. Additionally, Norway has banned TikTok on governmental devices while allowing civil servants to use it on their personal devices for professional purposes.
New York City’s decision underscores the ongoing debate surrounding TikTok’s safety and its links to Chinese technology companies. While TikTok has maintained its commitment to user privacy and security, its association with ByteDance, coupled with concerns about potential Chinese government influence, has prompted widespread action to mitigate risks associated with the app’s use on government devices.
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