TikTok faces FTC investigation over data and security practices, AP reports
PBS NewsHourMar 28
Reports: FTC Probing TikTok Over Data, Security Practices
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The Facts
The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is reportedly investigating the social media platform TikTok over matters related to its data and security practices.
The probe, which could result in a settlement or a lawsuit, looks into whether the China-based, ByteDance-owned platform indulged in "unfair and deceptive" business practices — a violation of federal law — by denying that US user data could be accessed by individuals in China.
The Spin
Pro-China narrative
In opposition to the recent tightening of ties between the US and China, some US politicians just can't quit hunting TikTok and fear-mongering over it despite the lack of evidence that the platform has been used for nefarious purposes. An FTC investigation is just another example of the US trying to get a leg up on China rather than work with Beijing towards a stable economic global environment.
Anti-China narrative
Public denials of TikTok accessing US user data don't mean much when executives were recorded saying this actually happened. The House bill is one way the US can better protect itself against China weaponizing TikTok, but FTC action is a solid tool to force more transparency from the platform or make it pay a steep price for potential violations of US law.