TikTok is gearing up for a potential shutdown in the United States this Sunday as a conditional federal ban looms, according to a report by The Information. The ban stems from a law signed by US President Joe Biden in April 2024, which mandates that TikTok must be sold off from its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, or face a nationwide ban.
What Happens If TikTok Shuts Down?
If the ban takes effect, US users may no longer be able to download the app, though those with TikTok already installed might still access it temporarily. To address the situation, TikTok plans to implement a pop-up message for users attempting to open the app, redirecting them to a website with detailed information about the ban.
Additionally, the company is offering users the option to download their personal data to preserve their information.
Legal Pushback from TikTok
TikTok has filed a legal challenge against the ban, arguing that it violates the First Amendment of the US Constitution, which protects free speech from government interference. The platform has also requested a delay in implementing the law, citing its potential impact on users and businesses.
The Stakes Are High
According to TikTok, an estimated one-third of the 170 million Americans using the app may cease to do so if the ban lasts more than a month. This would mark a significant blow to the platform, which has become a cultural and economic force in the US.
As TikTok prepares for the shutdown, the move highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding data privacy and national security. Whether the app’s future in the US can be salvaged depends on legal proceedings and potential negotiations between TikTok, ByteDance, and the US government.
