The article reports that U.S. lawmakers are pushing for any TikTok deal to completely sever ByteDance’s control, suggesting that TikTok U.S. should form a joint venture with Oracle to ensure that Chinese influence is removed from the app’s operations. The demand comes amid concerns over data security and potential authoritarian control over content and algorithms.

TikTok U.S., part of ByteDance's operations in America, has legally challenged a U.S. law that mandates divestiture from its Chinese owner, arguing that the measure infringes on First Amendment rights and free speech, while the government cites national security risks linked to CCP ties.

The FTC is investigating TikTok over potential violations of federal law related to unfair and deceptive business practices and possible breaches of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act. The probe raises concerns about TikTok’s data security practices and potential misuses that could impact user privacy and consumer trust.

The Federal Trade Commission is investigating TikTok U.S. over alleged unfair and deceptive business practices pertaining to its data security measures and potential violations of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act. The probe centers on claims that the company may have concealed access issues for U.S. user data and mishandled child data protection, raising questions about its commitment to corporate accountability.

The FTC is probing TikTok for allegedly deceptive privacy practices, including claims that Chinese entities cannot access U.S. user data. The investigation focuses on potential violations of children’s privacy laws and earlier settlements, raising national security concerns and questions about the company’s ethical responsibilities.

The FTC has launched an investigation into TikTok U.S.'s handling of user data, probing allegations that the company may have engaged in deceptive practices including potential violations of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection rule and misleading claims about data access by Chinese parties. This development raises serious concerns over the company's commitment to ethical business practices and transparent data security.

On March 15, 2024, reports emerged that several China hawks in Congress were considering blacklisting the lobbying firms representing TikTok and ByteDance from meeting with congressional offices. The discussions, fueled by concerns over national security and political influence, highlighted the company's recent lobbying expenditures through several high-profile firms.

TikTok U.S. launched an advertising and push notification campaign urging its users to call their representatives in protest of a potential ban that would force ByteDance to divest its stake. This move comes amid escalating congressional actions and bipartisan legislative efforts targeting the platform, with the campaign aiming to protect free speech and safeguard digital rights.

During a congressional hearing on March 24, 2023, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew spent five hours defending the company’s data security and addressing concerns about its ties to China’s authoritarian regime, including revelations that the platform has used user data to surveil journalists.

Human Rights Watch has urged the US Congress to compel TikTok to clarify its content moderation policy and enhance transparency over its communications with Chinese authorities. The call follows allegations that TikTok has suppressed content critical of the Chinese government and tracked journalists covering its links to China, raising concerns about the company's alignment with authoritarian practices.

TikTok U.S., part of TikTok's broader U.S. operations, initiated Project Texas to store American user data domestically and mitigate national security risks linked to potential authoritarian misuse. The initiative aimed to bolster digital privacy and safeguard free expression, although negotiations were eventually abandoned in favor of a ban or divestiture following CFIUS recommendations.