As TikTok expands into global markets, concerns are growing about the potential risks and opportunities it presents. The US and UK, among other countries, are closely examining the implications of the popular video-sharing app, particularly its parent company ByteDance’s ties to China. A deeper examination of TikTok’s innovation reveals the validity of the American historian, Melvin Kranzberg’s six laws of technology: technology itself is neither inherently good nor bad, but requires careful consideration of its costs and benefits. Like all innovations, TikTok is no exception and requires monitoring, which explains why countries are tightening their cybersecurity measures to guard against potential threats.
TikTok; a potential threat and gold mine
Various reports including Internet 2.0, a cybersecurity firm maintained Tiktok collects enormous amounts of data it often doesn’t need to function. If it accumulates data for the seek of it, it could be an indication that TikTok may be a ticking time bomb and any government that isn’t fully secured is sitting on a keg of gunpowder, due to the potential risks it poses to its individual and corporate users. While there are several risks associated with the platform due to how it sources data, privacy issues, and the geopolitics of data, some of the most pressing threats include:
Privacy and Data Security issues
There are concerns over potential privacy violations, and the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office is currently investigating the app. TikTok consumes more data than any other social media app, with 840MB per hour used globally. Daily usage per person is 53 minutes, equating to 742MB of monthly data allowance per day. Data collected includes videos watched and commented on, location data, phone model and operating system used, and even keystroke rhythms from user typing. With such data, users could be victims to anyone with access.
Cybersecurity Threats
TikTok has no 2-factor authentication integration, which leaves users vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Using TikTok could put users’ personal information at risk, with wider implications for national security. An app such as TikTok that has access to users’ WiFI network, contacts, video, and location can use a recommendation algorithm to weaponize its users.
Brainwashing tool
TikTok stands out among its competitors and it often seems addictive to its users. With its mastering of the art of personalized and addictive content especially for teenagers, Tiktok could train the data it harnesses to predict and brainwash its users. Bots and fake accounts have been used to manipulate public opinion on various issues, while the algorithm can amplify false information quickly. It is important to fact-check claims before believing or sharing them. Top cases of Tiktok’s colossal cringe fest include conspiracy theories related to COVID-19, political propaganda during the 2020 US presidential election, ISIS propaganda spread, Tiktok removal of accounts spreading propaganda about Uighur Muslims, etc.
TikTok’s Chinese origin is a big threat
China’s communist party is renowned for its censorship and it is not out of place to assume that China could steal rival users’ data through its proxy platform, Tiktok. Although according to the New York Times, there hasn’t been a piece of concrete evidence of the TikTok data theft, there have been privacy concerns. In 2020, Apple was said to have identified an issue with iOS 14, where certain apps such as Tiktok could secretly access the clipboard on a user’s device. Also, TikTok’s April 2022 privacy policy updates that would give Chinese employees access to data belonging to TikTok’s European users is another reason why any government including the UK that cares for its security should see TikTok as a threat.
Mitigating Titok security threats in the UK
As the popularity of TikTok continues to rise, so do concerns about the app’s security and privacy implications. In response, the UK government has taken various measures to address these issues and ensure the safe use of the app by both citizens and government officials. Among the UK government measures include the following;
- Sanctions and fines for breaches of data and security threats found on TikTok: The UK government has implemented sanctions and fines for any violations of data privacy or security regulations on TikTok. This is to incentivize the app to take necessary steps to protect user data and prevent security breaches. The financial penalties can be significant, which puts pressure on the company to comply with the regulations. However, the exact amount of the sanctions and fines is not specified.
- Introduction of TikTok alternatives for government use: The UK government recently disclosed they were banning Tiktok, but would that be a way out when there are no alternatives and when China moves to ban all UK associations/owned companies? To reduce the risk of sensitive government information being leaked or compromised through the use of TikTok, the UK government has introduced TikTok alternatives for government use. By providing government officials with alternative apps that prioritize security and privacy, the government can ensure that sensitive information is kept secure. However, the specific alternatives are not mentioned in the article.
- Third-party monitoring system to track app usage for certain harmful keywords: The UK government has introduced a third-party monitoring system to track app usage for certain harmful keywords. This system is designed to prevent the spread of misinformation, hate speech, and other harmful content on the platform. The details of how the system works and what keywords are being monitored are not specified.
- Introduction of two-factor authentication: The UK government has introduced two-factor authentication as an important step towards ensuring the safety and security of TikTok users. Two-factor authentication provides an additional layer of security by requiring users to enter a verification code sent to their phone, in addition to their password. This reduces the risk of unauthorized access to accounts. However, it’s not clear if the use of two-factor authentication is mandatory or optional for users.
- Enacting suitable security best practices: To mitigate the threats posed by TikTok, the UK government has recommended the use of suitable security best practices. These practices include regular security audits, employee training on security protocols, and the implementation of strong password policies. By following these best practices, the UK government can ensure that TikTok is used safely and securely by its citizens. It’s worth noting that these practices are not specific to TikTok but are standard security measures recommended for any online service or platform.
Conclusion
The UK government’s measures to mitigate the security threats posed by TikTok are commendable, but they must be progressive. The implementation of sanctions and fines for data and security breaches, the introduction of TikTok alternatives for government use, a third-party monitoring system, and the adoption of suitable security best practices are all steps in the right direction. However, a total ban and excessive fines may not be the ultimate solution, as it may reduce the opportunities available to citizens and businesses. Instead, a transparent and audited system and integration of web 3.0 regulated technology by both parties could provide a better solution. This approach will ensure that TikTok operates in compliance with data privacy and security regulations, and users can enjoy the benefits of using the app while their personal data remains secure. With these measures in place, the UK can continue to enjoy the benefits of the app’s popularity while also ensuring that the security and privacy of its citizens are safeguarded.
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