Australia has joined other US-allied countries in banning TikTok, the Chinese-owned video-sharing app, from all federal government-owned devices due to security concerns. The ban comes amid growing worries that China could use TikTok, owned by ByteDance, to harvest users’ data and advance its political agenda, potentially undermining Western security interests. This move follows similar bans by the United States, Canada, Britain, and New Zealand on TikTok from government devices.
The ban, which will come into effect “as soon as practicable”, was confirmed by Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus, who stated that exemptions would only be granted on a case-by-case basis with appropriate security measures in place. This decision risks renewing diplomatic tensions between Australia and China, its largest trading partner after relations have somewhat eased since Prime Minister Anthony Albanese took office in May at the head of a Labour government.
TikTok expressed disappointment over Australia’s decision, calling it “driven by politics, not by the fact”. TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew had denied in recent testimony before the US Congress that the app shares data or has connections with the Chinese Communist Party. TikTok’s Australia and New Zealand General Manager, Lee Hunter, argued that there is no evidence to suggest that TikTok poses a security risk and should not be treated differently from other social media platforms.
The ban follows a review by the Home Affairs Department and consideration of a report on foreign interference through social media applications. It also coincides with trade talks between Australia and China in an effort to normalize trade relations, as the World Trade Organisation prepares to release findings into an Australian complaint on barley tariffs. Trade Minister Don Farrell commented that “things are going well” but acknowledged that it will take time to improve trade relations.
In addition to the ban on federal government-owned devices, some Australian lawmakers, including federal Government Services Minister Bill Shorten and Victoria state Premier Daniel Andrews, have decided to delete their TikTok accounts. Victoria state will also ban the app on state government-owned phones, according to a government spokesperson. TikTok has faced criticism not only over potential Chinese influence on the platform but also its impact on children. Furthermore, TikTok has been asked by the Biden administration in the US to divest its Chinese ownership or face a potential ban in the country.
In conclusion, Australia’s ban on TikTok from government devices underscores concerns over security and potential foreign interference. Overall, the ban reflects Australia’s commitment to safeguarding its national security interests in the digital realm.
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For Digital Products and Services: Maurisys Software.
