US surveillance of TikTok
For a long period, the United States (US) has been closely monitoring TikTok due to its potential to influence the population, especially young people. Recently, US intelligence authorities have accused the Chinese government of having used this platform to influence the 2022 midterm elections. In addition, they have warned that China could try to interfere in this year’s elections with the goal of widening divisions in American society.
Report delivered to Congress
A report recently delivered to Congress by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence of the United States details that the Government of China would have used TikTok accounts to harm candidates from both the Democratic and Republican Parties during the 2022 elections. This report not only focuses on past elections, but also warns of possible attempts to influence future elections.
Concerns about future elections
The report warns that the Chinese Executive could try to influence the elections in November of this year, in which the Lower House and a third of the Senate will be renewed. In addition, it is mentioned that China could seek to harm the country’s critics and widen divisions in American society.
Previous accusations and debate in Washington
This is not the first time US intelligence has singled out TikTok. Similar accusations had been made previously. However, the current warning takes on added importance due to the renewed debate in Washington over the possible ban of TikTok. The Republican-dominated House is considering a bill that would force TikTok to break ties with its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, if it does not want to face a ban in the United States.
Possible impact on TikTok
Should this bill pass, ByteDance would have 180 days to sell the app. TikTok, which has around 170 million users in the United States, has quickly become one of the most popular social networks, especially among young people.