Chinese app TikTok has raised questions about the privacy and security of its users around the world. Therefore, the Government of Canada has taken the decision to ban the use of TikTok on government devices. The measure was taken in order to protect its users’ data and avoid threats to national security.

_{Person using Tiktok (Play/Unsplash)}

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stressed that the decision to ban the use of TikTok on government devices was carefully considered to ensure the safety of Canadian citizens on the Internet. Trudeau said this action is likely the only action the government will need to take, as the goal is to prevent threats to national security and protect user privacy.

The Canadian government’s move follows the lead of other countries that are also concerned about TikTok’s data collection and its potential cybersecurity risks.

The ban went into effect on the 28th, so federal employees can no longer own or download the app. In a statement, Mona Fortier, current president of the Treasury Board of Canada, said TikTok’s data collection methods pose a risk to phone content.

In response, TikTok questioned Canada’s position and found it interesting that the government took this step after similar bans took place in the European Union and the United States. Tiktok spokespersons said that at no time did the Canadian government approach them to question these so-called “risks” in the app’s security.

The privacy and security issues surrounding TikTok are not unique to Canada, last week the European Commission implemented a measure similar to Canada’s by introducing a similar measure. While since December 2022, the United States has banned the use of TikTok on government devices with the passage of a bill by the Senate. India, on the other hand, no longer uses the app, as it banned it in 2020.

Featured Photo: Tiktok Icon (Reproduction/Saudigazette)