Just last week, President Donald Trump announced he would be banning TikTok in the USA due to security concerns. This announcement took many by surprise considering how many users enjoy the app. Only a few days later, Microsoft confirmed that they’re looking to purchase the platform. If successful, the deal would give Microsoft ownership of TikTok’s operations in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Millions of American users are now patiently waiting to see the fate of TikTok.
“Microsoft fully appreciates the importance of addressing the President’s concerns. It is committed to acquiring TikTok subject to a complete security review and providing proper economic benefits to the United States, including the United States Treasury.”
Microsoft Corporate Blog
TikTok is owned by ByteDance which is based in Beijing. Most of the concerns that President Trump and others have pertains to the Chinese corporation’s handling of users’ data. While the majority of people in the United States feel safe using TikTok, some apprehension remains over having sensitive user data stored in China. One solution involves Microsoft acquiring TikTok and storing user data in the United States.
Microsoft and TikTok
This past weekend, Microsoft announced on Twitter that they would;
“continue discussions on potential TikTok purchase in the United States. President Trump has reportedly allowed Microsoft to continue working towards a solution, as long as a deal is made within 45 days. If purchased, Microsoft has stated that it would “build on the experience TikTok users currently love, while adding world-class security, privacy, and digital safety protections.”
Most importantly, user data outside the USA would be deleted.
All in all, Microsoft may be TikTok’s only chance to survive in the U.S. Nonetheless, many now share the concern of whether or not having Microsoft be in control of their user data is any better. Finally, we’ll have to wait and see if TikTok makes it to 2021.
