There’s a pretty big debate about whether TikTok is safe to use. It’s really no surprise: many US leaders, including the secretary of state and president, issued statements warning users about the app. So what do you really need to know about TikTok? Here’s some info to help answer your questions on TikTok and what the app collects. Recently, a US company purchased a large percentage of TikTok, meaning that Americans own the majority of the app currently. Does this change in ownership mean that you should be less concerned about the data TikTok collects? Yes and no. While many experts agree that the app is safer now because of the change in ownership, it can still collect the same data it was collecting before. Although TikTok promises not to sell your personal information to third parties, it maintains the right to share the info it gathers within its platform for business purposes.2 Here’s an important disclaimer: if you’ve forgotten how Facebook once sold user’s private data even when they promised otherwise, now’s a good time to keep that in mind. Just because an app promises they won’t share your data doesn’t mean they’ll stick to their word. It’s always good to remember that when you choose to share information online, it’s out there and you won’t be able to take it back. The best way to keep your information private is by limiting what you choose to share in the first place. By deleting your account and not using TikTok, you’re stopping the app from collecting further data from your activities. However, this won’t erase the previous data you’ve already shared. Here’s a list of internet safety tips that will help you keep your information safe online.
- Geoffrey Fowler, The Washington Post, “Is It Time to Delete TikTok? A Guide to the Rumors and the Real Privacy Risks,” July 13, 2020. Accessed October 23, 2020.
- TikTok, “Privacy Policy,” June 2, 2021. Accessed February 22, 2022.
