Australia imposes TikTok ban on official devices, joining others

The logo of Chinese-owned video app TikTok is seen on a smartphone in front of an image of the Australian national flag in this illustration picture taken April 4, 2023. REUTERS/Tingshu Wang/Illustration

Ana sayfa / News

Today, Australia banned TikTok on official devices, joining a growing list of Western countries implementing such restrictions. Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus announced the decision, stating the ban will be enforced “as soon as practicable.”

Decision Based on Security Concerns

Dreyfus mentioned that intelligence and security agencies’ advice influenced the decision. Australia also updated its Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF), citing TikTok’s data collection practices as security threats.

According to the directive, TikTok exposes non-corporate Commonwealth entities to security and privacy risks due to extensive user data collection and potential conflicts with Australian law. Authorities will allow TikTok use for legitimate business reasons on standalone devices.

Australia’s move aligns with New Zealand, the US, the UK, and Canada—Five Eyes collective members—all banning TikTok on official devices. The EU and Belgium have also imposed similar restrictions.

TikTok Responds to the Ban

TikTok expressed disappointment in the Australian government’s politically motivated decision. The company criticized the lack of direct communication, despite offering to engage with the government constructively.

TikTok emphasized that there’s no evidence suggesting the platform poses a security risk to Australians and should be treated like other social media platforms. Lee Hunter, General Manager of TikTok Australia and New Zealand, called for fairness in decision-making based on facts and equal treatment for businesses, regardless of origin.

ByteDance Under Pressure

Last month, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew testified before the US Congress in a five-hour session, assuring lawmakers that Chinese authorities don’t have access to US users’ data. ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, faces pressure from the Biden administration to either sell TikTok US or face an embargo. To appease US authorities and address data transparency concerns, TikTok launched a $1.5 billion initiative called “Project Texas.”