Here’s How the Company Responded

The Canadian government has ordered Chinese social media app TikTok to close its offices in Canada, citing security concerns about data privacy and possible foreign influence. The decision, announced Wednesday, forces the closure of TikTok’s offices in Toronto and Vancouver. However, according to a report by CBC News, Canadians are not restricted from using the app on their personal devices.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s administration took this step on the advice of Canada’s security and intelligence community. Innovation Minister François-Philippe Champagne said the government’s choice stemmed from a national security review that found TikTok’s operations posed serious risks. Champagne declined to disclose specific evidence but said the government had reason to believe TikTok’s activities could endanger Canadian interests.

Warning Against Use

While the government’s official statement leaves the choice of using TikTok up to individuals, it also encourages Canadians to be cautious. Minister Champagne stated that the Chinese government could access the data of Canadian users and warned users to use the application “with their eyes open.” “Obviously parents and anyone who wants to use social platforms need to be mindful of this risk,” he added. The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) has previously raised privacy and surveillance concerns by issuing warnings that the Chinese government could access data collected by TikTok.

Former CSIS director David Vigneault also weighed in, saying the platform’s design made it “very obvious” that user data could be accessed by Chinese authorities. He emphasized that young users may overlook its importance at the moment, but the data they share can be used in the future, even as their personal lives and careers develop.

How Did TikTok React?

This decision falls under the Canada Investment Act, which allows review of foreign investments that may threaten national security. TikTok’s Canadian spokesperson responded by criticizing the decision, saying it was a blow to jobs and innovation in Canada. The spokesperson confirmed that TikTok would legally challenge the government’s decision, arguing that it was “in no one’s interest” to close offices and eliminate jobs.

This move follows previous steps by Canada in February 2023, when it banned TikTok from all government-issued devices due to similar security concerns. The ensuing national security review provided further basis for the current order. As concerns about TikTok’s ties to China and data privacy issues grow globally, Canada joins the list of countries that have imposed restrictions on the app.