TikTok Shares More Data Than Any Other Social Media App...

Introduction

A recent report from CNBC highlights a concerning trend regarding TikTok’s data collection practices, revealing that the popular video-sharing app shares user data more extensively than any other social media platform. This revelation has raised questions about the privacy of users and the extent to which their data is used and shared.

Understanding the Scope of Data Sharing

The study in question dives into the practices of data collection, not just by the apps themselves but also by third-party trackers that are granted access to the app. Both TikTok and YouTube topped the list in terms of data sharing, but they operate differently. While YouTube, owned by Google, primarily collects personal data for its own use—such as tracking online search histories and location to deliver relevant advertisements—TikTok, which is owned by ByteDance, predominantly allows third-party trackers to gather users’ data.

This distinction raises a significant concern, as it becomes exceedingly challenging to trace where the data ends up and how it is utilized once shared with these external entities. The report notes that with third-party trackers, the exact details of who is monitoring data and what information they are collecting remain opaque.

Findings from the Study

The research analyzed data sharing practices across ten social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Telegram, Twitter, Snapchat, Messenger, and WhatsApp. The results were alarming; over the course of a single visit to TikTok, regardless of whether users were logged in or had accounts, extensive data sharing occurred.

Specifically, the findings indicated that out of 14 tracking contacts associated with TikTok, a staggering 13 were attributed to third-party domains. In comparison, YouTube had a more balanced approach, with only four of its 10 tracking contacts being third-party. Moreover, the troubling aspect is that users are subjected to this tracking even if they have opted out of data collection in their settings.

The Data Battle Continues

The ongoing struggle to protect personal data in the digital age has reached a concerning level. Users have likely encountered targeted advertisements based on previous searches, which points to an intricate web of data sharing among corporations. The situation becomes even more complex when considering the extent to which platforms under Meta, such as Facebook and Instagram, collaborate on data tracking, thus amplifying their power in this space.

The report also evokes memories of Apple’s attempts to curtail Facebook’s data tracking by giving users the option to opt-out on iOS devices. However, despite similar prompts, TikTok reportedly continues its aggressive data-sharing practices, even when users actively try to limit tracking.

This sparks curiosity as to whether the behavior is different when users create accounts or if this is simply the inherent approach of the app itself.

As our understanding of data privacy continues to evolve, the conversation surrounding the ethical implications of such practices will likely progress, revealing even more about how user information is treated by these social media giants.

Keywords

• TikTok
• Data Sharing
• Third-party Trackers
• Social Media
• User Privacy
• YouTube
• Data Collection
• Meta

FAQ

Q: Why is TikTok sharing more data than other apps?
A: TikTok predominantly allows third-party trackers to collect user data, which is significantly higher than what other apps do, including YouTube.

Q: Can I opt out of data tracking on TikTok?
A: Even if users opt out of tracking in their settings, TikTok has been reported to continue sharing data with third-party entities.

Q: How does TikTok's data sharing compare to YouTube?
A: While YouTube collects data primarily for its own purposes, TikTok relies heavily on third-party trackers, resulting in less clarity about how user data is utilized.

Q: What does this mean for user privacy?
A: The extent of data sharing, especially through third-party trackers, raises concerns about user privacy and the unknown routes through which personal data may travel.

Q: How can I protect my data while using social media apps?
A: Users can monitor app permissions, utilize privacy settings, and remain vigilant about what personal information they share online to better protect their data.