On January 19, 2025 Tiktok, a popular social media app was banned temporarily. The recent TikTok ban represents more than just a ban of intensely popular app. This ban is a reflection on how the youth of today engage with political control and social media. The sudden ban was brought on by issues on privacy and data in a digital world. To the government, TikTok’s security policies raised concern on national security and propaganda from the Chinese government. However, many felt the reasoning behind these concerns lacked substantial evidence. Even when the app was rebooted after a temporary blackout, users still feel hesitant. TIkTok was banned for a suspiciously short period of time. The weeks leading up to the ban, users became united in the fight to save TikTok. Ultimately, it transcended into a defiant act of protest.
Millions of users gathered on TikTok to form communities and discussions on anything from shows to experiences. Taking away such a beloved app was sure to stir up a debacle. The immediate reaction from users was disbelief. “I go on TikTok daily, so I’m really disappointed to let it go,” said Kamryn Evans. Additionally, users felt that the ban breached their right to free speech. In a digital age, government control becomes incredibly complicated. National security should be a top priority; however, this regulation can border the line of being excessive. A ban can be extreme if not properly examined without bias. TikTok was inundated with concerned users who expressed this very opinion.
To mourn this loss, TikTok users swarmed to other platforms in search of a replacement. One of the most used apps being “Xiaohongshu,” also known as “RedNote.” This Chinese-based app became flooded with U.S. users. In true internet fashion, people began creating memes and connecting with fellow Chinese users by using terms like “#TikTokRefugee.”
Many people began to adapt to the app, with some even learning Mandarin. Users deliberately ignored rumored privacy concerns. In a moment of desperation two communities that were previously disconnected became united.
TikTok did eventually become available after 12 hours due to an executive order. The app currently is not available for download on app stores but pre-downloaded users can access the app. In spite of the reboot, however, users worry that TikTok is bound to change. According to Reuters, “Users say they are seeing fewer livestreams, and some activity is being removed or flagged at higher rates for violating community guidelines, including for behavior that was previously permitted.” Despite the app working for now, its future still remains unsure.
Even if TikTok is bought by a U.S. company, it is likely that it will lose the charm that made it so popular in the first place. No matter how this ban is settled, this short-lived ban captured a glimpse into the impact of social media and how it was able to connect communities and drive people to thoroughly think about government control.
