Title: The TikTok Ban in the US: How are Users Responding?
As ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, implemented an app ban in the United States on Sunday, Americans woke up to a new reality. When users in the US try to open the app, they encounter a message stating, “Apologies, TikTok is currently unavailable.”
The ban sparked a surge in online searches with phrases such as “how to navigate TikTok ban US,” “ways to circumvent TikTok block,” and “TikTok VPN.” These search terms saw a significant rise in Google Trends, indicating the immediate response of users trying to find a way around the ban.
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The ban led to many users resorting to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) in an attempt to maintain access to TikTok. VPNs are powerful tools that mask your IP address by linking you to a secure server in a location of your choice. This could, in theory, allow users to continue using TikTok despite the ban. Despite the known cybersecurity risks associated with TikTok, dedicated users are not deterred. The uptick in VPN usage was so significant that issues with popular VPN service, NordVPN, were reported on Ziff Davis-owned site Downdetector as the ban took effect.
Despite efforts to use VPNs to bypass the ban, many users reported on social media that this strategy was not successful for them. Users shared their experiences, often humorously, about their unsuccessful attempts to bypass the block.
Various theories on how to keep TikTok operational in the US also started making rounds on social media. Some users suggested setting the VPN to a country where TikTok isn’t banned, while others recommended using a VPN to create a new account not based in the US.
However, it’s worth noting that the most effective way to regain access to TikTok might simply be patience. President-elect Donald Trump has hinted at a potential 90-day extension for TikTok to avoid a permanent ban, according to NBC reports.
In the message explaining the ban, TikTok mentioned that “President Trump has indicated he will collaborate with us on a solution to restore TikTok once he assumes office.” With Trump’s inauguration happening on Monday, there is potential for a swift extension. Until then, TikTok creators and users must adapt to a life without the popular app.
Topics: Cybersecurity, TikTok.
