TikTok’s Conflict of Interest with the US Government: Between Big Data Security and Economics (2017-2023)

The dynamics between TikTok, owned by the Chinese company Byte dance, and the US government highlights a conflict between cybersecurity and data sovereignty. This paper explores the US government’s accusations against the social media company for potentially compromising American user data and the potential cybersecurity threats the US may face due to a foreign-based social media platform.

This study delves into the broader geopolitical ramifications of these allegations, examining the strategic actions taken by the US. These include executive orders and legislative attempts to curb TikTok’s operations. These actions are presented as measures to protect national security and economic interests. This study highlights the emerging landscape where data acts as a critical asset in global power structures.

The findings indicate that TikTok’s innovative use of big data has significantly bolstered its market dominance. However, the dominance of a foreign-based social media company brings substantial security concerns. These concerns span the dimensions of national and economic security, suggesting that TikTok’s data practices could potentially affect the sovereignty and economic stability of nations. Moreover, foreign-based platforms like TikTok could be utilized to sway public opinion in favor of foreign adversaries, ultimately undermining the stability of a country.

In addition, this study recognizes the role of state capabilities in securing cyberspace as crucial for real-world national security. The complexity of cybersecurity is heightened by the universal access to cyber. The paper concludes with a discussion on the future of cybersecurity in international relations and the ongoing challenges in regulating and securing global digital ecosystems. This includes viewing the US government’s interest in TikTok as an extension of local private sector concerns, based on findings that illustrate TikTok’s significant economic influence and its contested role in the global market.