The Canadian federal government has ordered the closure of TikTok’s business operations in the country following a national security review. However, Canadians will still be able to use the app, as the order only prohibits the company from conducting business within Canada.
Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne announced the decision on Wednesday, explaining that it was based on a review of national security risks associated with TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance Ltd., and its subsidiary, TikTok Technology Canada Inc.
“The decision was made after reviewing evidence and based on recommendations from Canada’s security and intelligence agencies, as well as other government partners,” Champagne stated.
While TikTok will cease its operations in Canada, the government emphasized that Canadians can still access the app, create new accounts, and use the platform as usual. However, the government has urged users to follow cybersecurity best practices and consider the potential risks of using social media platforms.
In response, TikTok acknowledged that the order would lead to significant job losses in Canada and confirmed plans to challenge the decision in court. A company spokesperson stated, “We will challenge this order in court. The TikTok platform will remain available for creators and businesses to engage with audiences and thrive.”
The move follows a broader global debate over TikTok’s security risks. In the United States, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill in March 2024 to ban TikTok unless ByteDance sells its stake in the app. The law is set to take effect in January 2025 unless President-elect Trump intervenes. Trump, who initially called for a ban in 2020, has since expressed support for the platform.
TikTok has already been banned on U.S. government devices since 2020, and Canada imposed a similar ban on government mobile devices in February 2023, amid ongoing security concerns.
Peoplesmind
