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TikTok tries to head off EU data fears, U.S. ban
Introduction
In an effort to address growing concerns over data privacy and to stave off a potential ban in the United States, TikTok has launched a new security initiative named Project Clover. Announced on Wednesday, this initiative aims to store European user data locally, starting this year. As part of this plan, TikTok will establish new data centers in Ireland and Norway.
This move comes on the heels of the app being banned from staff phones at European Union institutions, amid fears that the Chinese-owned platform could be utilized to harvest data for the Beijing government. The European Union has expressed significant concerns regarding the app's data handling practices, which TikTok is keen to allay.
In parallel with these efforts in Europe, TikTok is also taking steps to ease worries in the United States, where it faces increasing scrutiny from lawmakers. This week, the White House has supported legislation that would give the administration the power to ban TikTok and other foreign-based technologies amid mounting pressure over data privacy.
TikTok has presented itself as a "pro-compliance" organization, emphasizing its willingness to collaborate with authorities to solve any concerns. Meanwhile, Beijing has sharply criticized global initiatives to restrict the app, arguing that these actions are merely attempts to limit competition in the digital space.
Keywords
- TikTok
- Project Clover
- European data storage
- Data centers
- EU ban
- Data privacy
- U.S. legislation
- Compliance
- Beijing criticism
- Competition limitations
FAQ
What is Project Clover?
Project Clover is TikTok's new security initiative aimed at storing European user data locally to address data privacy concerns.
Where will TikTok's new data centers be located?
The new data centers will be established in Ireland and Norway.
Why has TikTok been banned from EU staff phones?
The ban is due to concerns that the Chinese-owned app could be used to harvest data for the Chinese government.
What actions is the U.S. government considering regarding TikTok?
The White House is backing legislation that would give the administration the authority to ban TikTok and other foreign-based technologies.
How is TikTok responding to these concerns?
TikTok has stated that it is a pro-compliance company and is open to working with authorities to address any issues related to data privacy.
What has been Beijing's response to actions against TikTok in other countries?
Beijing has criticized global moves to restrict TikTok, claiming they are attempts to limit competition in the market.