By Edisleibys Cuesta

TikTok, the popular social media app, was at the center of political and social controversy this month. With over a billion active users, people were frantic as the app began its final countdown until shutdown. In many countries, including the United States, the app was restricted for approximately 12 hours and was banned over concerns about data privacy, national security, and content moderation.

There were many concerns, particularly regarding security issues. Since TikTok is owned by the Chinese tech company ByteDance, it raised concerns for the U.S. government due to its potential access to information such as user locations and American information. Many people argue that the Chinese government could access this data, posing a potential threat to national security.

“Honestly I think the TikTok ban is good because whenever my brother is on Tik Tok it’s not good for him, I wouldn’t want my brother watching Skibidi Toilet,” said junior Daynian Arias

TikTok has consistently denied these allegations, asserting that it stores U.S. user data on servers outside China. Critics remain skeptical, even with TikTok’s willingness to cooperate by planning operations to work with U.S-based Oracle to oversee its operations. 

Beyond security concerns, TikTok has faced backlash for its addictive content and its ability to shape a person’s mental and social behaviors. While the platform is used for self-expression, education, and small businesses, it may be used for the spread of misinformation, foreign propaganda, and harmful trends.

This has had a serious impact on students at MLEC since TikTok was a social platform that many students have used. In the hallways, students can be seen making TikToks and dancing with their friends, highlighting how the platform has become an integral part of their daily social life.

“This is not okay, how am I going to talk to my mutual friends now? They can’t do this. I’ve been on this app since musically,” said freshman Keisy Arias

As debates around TikTok continue, a balance must be met to ensure national security and preserve digital and social freedom. When TikTok disappeared for what felt like a long 12 hours, many users briefly switched to RedNote, a competing app.

The ban was postponed due to President Trump’s executive order to lift the ban for 75 days. Even with President Trump’s executive order pausing the federal ban on TikTok, the app remains unavailable in app stores. The ban highlighted the growing tension between security and freedom in modern-day social media. As discussions about TikTok’s future continue, the app’s fate remains uncertain. While some wish for it to stay intact, others embrace the possibility of its removal.