David Vigneault, head of Canada’s Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), has warned Canadians against using the popular video app TikTok, claiming the Chinese government is using it to access personal data from people around the world.
“My answer as director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) is that there is a very clear strategy on the part of the government of China to be able to acquire personal information from anyone around the world,” Vigneault told CBC News in an interview.
TikTok responded by stating they have never shared Canadian user data with the Chinese government and would not do so if asked. They also emphasized their ongoing communication with Canadian officials and willingness to engage with CSIS regarding the privacy and security of Canadian users.
In September, Canada initiated a national security review regarding TikTok’s proposal to expand its operations within the country. Vigneault will be participating in the review and offering advice.
Similar concerns exist in the US, where the Biden administration views TikTok’s US operations as a national security threat due to its Chinese ownership. The US government is demanding TikTok be removed from the country or sold. TikTok has filed a lawsuit against this decision.
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