TikTok has exploded in popularity in recent years, becoming one of the most downloaded and used social media apps globally. The app allows users to create and share short videos set to music, often showing dancing, comedy skits, or participating in viral challenges.
However, TikTok’s meteoric rise has also brought increased scrutiny, especially around privacy. Critics have raised concerns about TikTok’s data collection practices and ties to its parent company ByteDance, a Chinese firm that must comply with the country’s laws and regulations. There are fears that user data could be accessed by the Chinese government for surveillance purposes.
TikTok claims they store American user data in the US and Singapore, and would not hand it over to China. But security experts say the app still poses risks.
The debate continues around whether TikTok’s fun, viral videos are worth the potential privacy tradeoffs. In this article, we’ll dive into TikTok’s privacy policies, security issues, and steps users can take to better protect their information.
TikTok’s Data Collection
TikTok collects a significant amount of data from its users. According to their privacy policy, TikTok collects information like your username, password, email address, phone number, age, payment information, contacts, location data, and browsing history (TikTok Privacy Policy).
An analysis of TikTok’s code and permissions shows that they access data from your camera, microphone, calendar, contacts, GPS location, and more. TikTok appears to collect more data points than similar apps like Facebook or Instagram (Demystifying TikTok data collection).
Specifically, TikTok collects information about the content you view, like, share, and create on the platform. They track your interests based on hashtags and accounts you interact with to serve you personalized ads and recommendations. TikTok also collects technical data from your device like your IP address, device ID, operating system, and battery level.
While TikTok claims not to collect more data than other social media platforms, the breadth of information they can access on your device is concerning to privacy advocates.
TikTok’s Privacy Policies
TikTok’s privacy policy states that they collect a wide range of data on users, including your IP address, device information, location data, browsing history, search history, and personal information such as your name and email address. They use this data for purposes like customized ads, content recommendations, and maintaining the safety of their platform.
Compared to other social networks like Facebook and Instagram, TikTok’s data collection practices are quite similar. All of these platforms gather user data to target ads and improve their services. However, TikTok’s ties to China raise additional privacy concerns that Western social networks do not have.
According to an analysis on USA Today, TikTok’s privacy policy is not much different than Facebook and Instagram in terms of data mining. The key difference is that TikTok states they may share international user data with their China-based parent company, ByteDance, while US platforms keep data within their own country.
Ties to China and Censorship
TikTok is owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, which has led to concerns over censorship and ties to the Chinese government. According to Wikipedia, “There is evidence that TikTok has down-weighted the posts of topics deemed sensitive by the Chinese government and Chinese Communist Party.” [1] TikTok has been accused of censoring content related to protests in Hong Kong, Tibetan independence, and criticism of the Chinese government.
According to an article from The Conversation, “Digital platforms like TikTok could help China extend its censorship regime across borders.” [2] There are concerns that TikTok’s parent company ByteDance could be compelled to censor content or share user data with the Chinese government. While TikTok claims it stores international user data outside of China, experts warn there are still risks.
The ties between TikTok and its Chinese ownership raise important questions about censorship and privacy for the platform’s international users. More transparency and assurances around data security may be needed to address these concerns.
Security and Hacking Risks
TikTok has faced some concerning security issues that raise questions about how safe user data is on the platform. In early 2020, security researchers discovered multiple vulnerabilities that could have allowed hackers to manipulate user data and feeds (Source). These flaws included the ability to send users malicious links that could steal personal information, upload unauthorized videos, and view private videos of any user (Source).
While TikTok patched those vulnerabilities, the incidents highlighted the platform’s weak security protections. TikTok uses standard encryption for transmitted user data. However, cybersecurity experts note the encryption keys are based in China, leaving open the possibility of decryption by Chinese authorities (Source). There have been no confirmed major breaches of TikTok to date, but its security track record remains questionable.
Age Appropriateness
TikTok’s minimum age requirement to create an account is 13 according to their Terms of Service. However, there are risks specific to young users under 13 using the platform.
According to Common Sense Media, TikTok can expose younger kids to inappropriate content like sexually suggestive dance trends, foul language in songs, and mature themes in some videos. There are also risks around privacy and data collection as younger kids may not understand how their data is being used.
TikTok can also negatively impact mental health and body image in young kids according to research from Parents.com. The pressure to gain views and followers can lead to anxiety and depression. Kids may also compare themselves negatively to others and develop body image issues.
Parents are advised to supervise TikTok use for kids under 13 and utilize the app’s Family Pairing feature to limit access and restrict content. Setting screen time limits is also recommended to prevent overuse and addiction.
Addictiveness of Platform
Research shows the addictive nature of TikTok can negatively impact mental health, especially for teenagers and young adults. A recent CNN article highlighted that teens are losing sleep and becoming addicted to endless TikTok scrolling. Jerome Yankey, a college student, admitted to pulling all-nighters on TikTok instead of studying or socializing. This compulsive use is concerning as it may lead to sleep deprivation, anxiety, depression, and reduced academic performance.
Experts say TikTok’s algorithm is designed to keep users engaged for long periods by offering personalized, autoplaying content. The constant novelty and social validation can make it hard to stop watching. One study found that TikTok was the most addictive social media platform, scoring poorly on measures of self-regulation. While social media use in moderation can have benefits, compulsive TikTok use may require professional support for treatment, such as counseling or therapy.
Parents should monitor screen time and educate teens about digital wellbeing. The platform also needs stronger safeguards to curb excessive usage, especially for younger demographics. Moderation and self-control is key to ensure TikTok does not replace real-world experiences and relationships.
Privacy Tips for Users
There are several ways TikTok users can protect their privacy on the platform:
Make your account private – By making your TikTok account private, you control who can view your videos. Only approved followers will be able to see your content. To make your account private, go to Settings > Privacy and toggle on “Private Account”. (source)
Limit data collection – Go to Settings > Privacy > Data Collection and customize options like “Personalized ads,” “Share usage data” and “Cookies” to limit how much data TikTok can collect. Turn these options off for maximum privacy.
Avoid connecting third-party apps – Be cautious about connecting third-party apps like streaming software or growth services, as this grants more data access. Review permissions carefully before connecting.
Turn off suggestions – Go to Settings > Privacy > Suggest Your Account To Others and toggle this off. This prevents TikTok from suggesting your account to new users.
Review all privacy settings – TikTok has many granular privacy controls. Take time to review each one to understand how your data may be used.
Monitor screen time – The app’s addictive nature can lead to overuse. Set limits on daily use to maintain balance.
Avoid revealing personal details – Be selective about what you share in videos, bios and comments to protect your privacy.
Alternatives to TikTok
For those concerned about privacy on TikTok, there are some alternative platforms that may provide better privacy protections.
One popular alternative is Triller, which bills itself as a private and secure social video platform. Triller does not track users’ data or sell it to third parties. However, Triller has a smaller user base than TikTok, so there is less content and fewer people to connect with.
Snapchat is another alternative, as chats and stories disappear after viewing. However, Snapchat still collects user data. Instagram Reels allows sharing short videos as well, but also collects user information.
Overall, while no platform can guarantee complete privacy, individuals concerned about TikTok’s data practices may want to explore alternative options that are more transparent and put greater emphasis on privacy protections.
Conclusion
While TikTok has faced scrutiny over its data collection practices and privacy policies, the platform has made efforts to be more transparent and allow users more control. However, concerns remain over its ties to China, content moderation, and potential security vulnerabilities.
Ultimately, TikTok requires users to make an informed decision based on their own privacy priorities and tolerance for risk. Those highly concerned with privacy may want to steer clear or take precautions like using alternate accounts and avoiding sensitive content. But for many, the benefits of creativity, entertainment and community outweigh the potential risks.
For most users, following basic precautions can help balance privacy and participation:
- Review and tailor privacy settings
- Avoid sharing personal info like real name, school, address
- Consider using an alternate account for more sensitive content
- Be mindful of scams and phishing attempts
- Report inappropriate content or accounts
- Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication
While no platform offers complete privacy, individuals can take steps to better control their own data and online footprint. TikTok offers both fun and risks – being an informed and empowered participant is key to enjoying its benefits while protecting privacy.
