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How TikTok tracks data
How TikTok Tracks Data
An Interview with Co-founder and CEO of Futo Security, Ivan Serini
In a recent discussion, Ivan Serini, co-founder and CEO of Futo Security, warned Congress about the grave concerns related to TikTok collecting sensitive data on users and non-users alike. Many people remain indifferent to privacy matters, assuming that every app tracks them, so they think it’s not a big deal. However, Serini urges everyone to read TikTok’s terms of service, highlighting that they effectively allow TikTok, and subsequently ByteDance and China, legal rights over users' information.
Data Collection Through TikTok App
Serini identifies two primary areas of concern. Firstly, the data that TikTok collects from its app users. Information gathered through the app includes personal data, usage patterns, and other sensitive information.
Data Collection on Non-Users
More alarmingly, TikTok collects data even on individuals who never use the app, referred to as non-users. This is done through something known as "pixels," which are small pieces of software embedded in various websites.
Understanding Pixels
Many people are familiar with "cookies," the small pieces of data websites use to track user activity. Pixels operate similarly but are capable of more detailed monitoring. They can track everything users do online, from the websites they visit to the forms they fill out, including sensitive information like credit card numbers and medical appointments. Pixels provide this data to websites users trust, but they also share this data with TikTok and other entities. Thus, TikTok can obtain this sensitive information without users ever consenting to any terms of service or privacy policies.
Security Concerns and China's Access to Data
The most significant concern with TikTok collecting this data relates to ByteDance and, by extension, any Chinese organization. Chinese law allows the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to access data collected by companies like ByteDance. This creates severe risks for both privacy and national security.
Specific Concerns Raised
One significant worry is logging into sensitive accounts, like banking apps, from a phone that has TikTok installed. While Serini clarifies that there is no direct evidence TikTok accesses bank login details via mobile apps, the true concern lies in information gathered through web activity. TikTok can monitor data through websites accessed from phones or computers, even if the app itself is not installed.
Congressional and Public Response
The alarming scope of this data collection has led to increased scrutiny from Congress, along with growing public concern. While there’s no definitive proof that TikTok is currently misusing this data, the potential risks outlined by Serini are enough to warrant serious consideration and precaution.
Keywords
- TikTok
- Data Collection
- Privacy
- Pixels
- ByteDance
- Chinese Communist Party (CCP)
- National Security
- Congressional Hearing
- Web Activity Monitoring
FAQ
Q: What is the primary method through which TikTok collects data on non-users? A: TikTok collects data on non-users through pixels, which are small pieces of software embedded in various websites.
Q: Are cookies and pixels the same? A: No, they are similar but not identical. While both track user activity, pixels provide more detailed monitoring, capturing everything from website visits to information typed into forms.
Q: Can TikTok access my banking login details? A: There is no direct evidence that TikTok accesses banking login details via mobile apps. However, it can collect information from websites accessed through your phone or computer.
Q: Why is data collection by TikTok a concern? A: The primary concern is that Chinese law allows the CCP to access data collected by companies like ByteDance, leading to potential privacy and national security risks.
Q: Has Congress taken any action based on these concerns? A: Yes, Congress has shown concern, and discussions are ongoing, as outlined by Ivan Serini’s testimony.
Q: Is TikTok the only company using pixels? A: No, several companies use pixels for data collection. However, TikTok’s connection to ByteDance and the potential access by the CCP heightens the concern.