By 
TikTok is suing the US government, claiming a new law that could force the app to be sold to a US owner is unconstitutional.
The law, called the “Protecting Americans From Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act,” would require TikTok to sell its US operations within a year. TikTok argues the law unfairly targets the app and its Chinese parent company ByteDance, and that there’s no real evidence TikTok is a threat.
TikTok’s Arguments
- The law is a ban, not regulation: While the law allows for a sale, TikTok says meeting the requirements is impossible and would effectively shut down the app.
- The law is based on speculation: TikTok argues there’s no proof the app is a national security threat. US lawmakers haven’t made public the specific details of their concerns.
- The law violates free speech, TikTok says. It unfairly targets a single platform and restricts people’s ability to use it.
- The law sets a dangerous precedent: If the law is upheld, it could be used to force the sale of other US platforms based on foreign ownership.
Security Concerns
- Lawmakers are worried about Chinese government influence: While many social media platforms face issues with foreign influence campaigns, there’s concern that China could use TikTok to spread propaganda or manipulate public opinion.
- China has a history of influence campaigns: Chinese groups have reportedly tried to influence elections in other countries, raising concerns about similar efforts on US soil.
What’s next?
TikTok’s lawsuit will be heard in federal court. The court will decide whether the law is constitutional based on legal arguments, not the app’s popularity or economic impact.
