Imagine scrolling through your phone, a constant stream of entertainment at your fingertips. But what if that seemingly harmless app raised national security concerns? That’s the debate swirling around TikTok, and Serena Williams’ husband, Alexis Ohanian, has a strong opinion. Buckle up for a story that dives into the world of social media giants, political tensions, and the future of our data.
Beyond Likes & Followers: The Geopolitical Game Behind TikTok
TikTok, a short-form video platform, has taken the world by storm. However, its Chinese ownership has sparked anxieties in the US government. Lawmakers fear the app could be a tool for data collection or propaganda. Recently, the House passed a bill prohibiting the app from being used on government devices. But is this enough? Enter Alexis Ohanian, a tech entrepreneur with a powerful voice.
“It is a little validating for me because I have been advocating for something to happen for the last three or four years,” Ohanian said.
Imagine scrolling through your phone, a constant stream of entertainment at your fingertips. But what if that seemingly harmless app raised national security concerns? That’s the debate swirling around TikTok, and Serena Williams’ husband, Alexis Ohanian, has a strong opinion. Buckle up for a story that dives into the world of social media giants, political tensions, and the future of our data.
Beyond Likes & Followers: The Geopolitical Game Behind TikTok
TikTok, a short-form video platform, has taken the world by storm. However, its Chinese ownership has sparked anxieties in the US government. Lawmakers fear the app could be a tool for data collection or propaganda. Recently, the House passed a bill prohibiting the app from being used on government devices. But is this enough? Enter Alexis Ohanian, a tech entrepreneur with a powerful voice.
“It’s a strategic threat to the United States, but more pragmatically, no American social media companies are allowed to operate in China. So, as a matter of reciprocity, why are we letting a Chinese owned social media company operate in America? Very simple, very straightforward,” he added.
“I don’t think it should be banned, I think it should be sold. Who knows, maybe Walmart ends up buying it…Amazon… I don’t know,” Alexis Ohanian said.
“I know A&E trust has come up a lot recently for some pretty silly M&A like Facebook trying to buy Giphy. But, there are plenty of folks who are very interested in buying TikTok who are not already part of the social media tech elite, who would be great candidates. I hope that’s the outcome we get because it should be American owned,” he added.
The future of TikTok in the US remains uncertain. Ohanian’s call to action adds fuel to the fire, urging further discussion about data privacy and national security. What are your thoughts on the potential threats posed by TikTok? Should the US take a stronger stance? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Let’s explore the complexities of social media ownership and its impact on a global scale.
