Republican Congresswoman Nicole Malia Takis recently expressed concerns about the popular social media app TikTok, citing national security issues and potential influence from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Takis highlighted that the CCP controls ByteDance, the company behind TikTok, and may be using the app to manipulate and indoctrinate young users.
Takis emphasized that TikTok has been prohibited on government devices due to security risks, including data theft and geolocation tracking of users. She mentioned that the app has been linked to nefarious activities, such as drug cartel operations and human smuggling.
Regarding recent actions taken against TikTok, Takis clarified that a call for divestment from ByteDance was made, rather than an outright ban. She noted that young users were reportedly urged to contact Congress to prevent restrictions on the app, raising concerns about potential manipulation and misinformation.
Additionally, Takis addressed reports of young individuals threatening self-harm if TikTok faced a ban, indicating the strong attachment and addiction some users have developed towards the platform. She expressed disappointment in President Trump's initial stance on TikTok and criticized the reported influence of a major ByteDance investor who made a donation to Trump.
In response to questions about the app's impact on youth and national security, Takis stressed the need for vigilance and caution when using platforms like TikTok. She urged for measures to protect American data and prevent foreign interference through social media channels.
