US TikTok ban: When and why could the app be banned?
For millions of businesses and influencers, TikTok isn't just another social media platform – it's their livelihood. With the recent signing of legislation that could force ByteDance (TikTok’s parent company) to sell or shut down TikTok in the United States, countless content creators and businesses face an uncertain future.
Their years of hard work, audiences, and revenue streams hang in the balance. So that begs the questions: What will happen to my account? How is this impacting me as a user?
But more on that later. First…
Who wants to ban TikTok in the US and why?
The push to ban TikTok is due to a rare moment of bipartisan agreement in Washington. Lawmakers from both major US political parties have united behind legislation that would force ByteDance, TikTok's parent company, to sell to a non-Chinese company or face a complete ban.
But why do they want to ban TikTok?
Their main concern: The safety of American data.
With 120 million US users sharing content daily, lawmakers worry that ByteDance could be forced by the Chinese government to hand over sensitive user information.
Despite TikTok's repeated assurances that they would never share foreign user data with Chinese authorities, the concerns persist, leading to this unprecedented legislative action.
When and why could TikTok be banned?
The clock is ticking. President Joe Biden signed legislation that gives ByteDance a nine-month deadline to divest TikTok or cease US operations. This follows a wave of smaller-scale bans that have already restricted TikTok from government devices and university networks across the country.
If ByteDance fails to sell by January 19, 2025, TikTok faces a complete shutdown in the US.
While TikTok isn't taking this lying down – they've launched a legal lawsuit, calling the law unconstitutional and arguing it unfairly targets a single platform used by over a billion people worldwide – but their initial appeal was rejected by the DC court on December 6th.
How would a TikTok ban work?
The ban is straightforward but far-reaching. ByteDance had nine months to find a buyer (until January 2025), with a possible three-month extension. If no sale occurs, the most likely enforcement would be TikTok's removal from US app stores, effectively cutting off new downloads and updates.
Also, the law requires internet service providers to block the platform on US internet browsers.
But the legislation goes beyond TikTok, granting the president broad authority to restrict apps tied to countries deemed US adversaries, including China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. However, President-elect Trump said in the run-up to the November elections that he wouldn't enforce a ban, but the law's provisions remain in place.\
What has TikTok said it will do about the ban?
TikTok isn't surrendering without a fight. The company announced plans to take its case to the Supreme Court, expressing confidence in the Court's history of protecting Americans' right to free speech.
However, the situation is complicated due to international politics – ByteDance would need Chinese government approval for any sale, and Beijing has already voiced opposition to a forced divestment.
What can you do to protect yourself from a possible ban in January?
Don't wait until the last minute to protect yourself. Smart creators and businesses are already taking steps to backup their content and audience relationships:
First, diversify your social media presence across multiple platforms. Think of it as not putting all your eggs in one basket. Second, back up your content regularly using social media security tools like Spikerz to preserve your hard work.
And most crucially, build an email list. This direct line of communication with your audience remains yours regardless of platform changes. Set up a simple Google form to collect email addresses and keep your TikTok community informed about your content and future plans.
How can you backup your TikTok content?
Backing up your TikTok content is very simple, all you have to do is:
- Connect your TikTok profile to analyze your content.
- When Spikerz finishes its analysis, it will redirect you to your dashboard. Click, “Backup.” Then, “Backup content.”
- Spikerz will immediately start backing up your content.
- Once it’s done, you’ll always have access to your backup. Just download it and upload it somewhere else if you want. Also, make sure to change your settings to allow for archiving posts.
What alternatives exist to TikTok?
There are several platforms that are positioning themselves as viable TikTok alternatives. For example:
- YouTube Shorts offers similar short-form video capabilities with the backing of Google's robust infrastructure.
- Pinterest combines visual discovery with strong business features and a shopping-focused audience.
- Instagram Reels provides familiar video creation tools with Meta's extensive reach and established monetization options.
Conclusion
The potential TikTok ban represents a turning point for digital creators and businesses.
While the platform's fate remains uncertain, you can take control of your digital future today. Start backing up your content with Spikerz, diversifying your platform presence, and building your email list.
Remember, your success isn't tied to any single platform – it's built on your creativity, dedication, and ability to adapt to change.
