The US Justice Department has filed a court document expressing worries about the potential for the Chinese government to influence US elections through TikTok. Prosecutors highlighted the possibility of TikTok's algorithm being used for covert manipulation to sway American opinions. They emphasized that allowing a foreign government, such as China, to have control over TikTok poses a significant threat to national security.
The filing is a response to a lawsuit initiated by TikTok against the US government, aiming to block a law that could lead to a nationwide ban of the app. The law, signed by President Joe Biden, requires TikTok to find a new owner by mid-January 2025 or face a ban in the US. TikTok and Bytedance argue that the law infringes on free speech rights and prevents Americans from accessing lawful information.
US officials have long been concerned about TikTok's ties to China potentially compromising American users' data. The Justice Department contends that the law is focused on national security issues related to TikTok's connection to a hostile foreign power and not on suppressing free speech.
Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco has previously cautioned against using TikTok due to the Chinese national security laws that require data sharing with the state. The DOJ filing points out that TikTok collects extensive data from its US users, including precise locations, viewing habits, and private messages.
Law enforcement officials believe that TikTok's algorithm, located in China, could be controlled by the Chinese government to shape content for American users. Concerns have been raised about the app's potential to collect, censor, or promote specific content. Additionally, there are worries about employees gathering bulk information based on user-generated content discussing sensitive topics like gun control, abortion, and religion.
