TikTok announced it may disable its app for over 170 million U.S. users on Sunday unless the Biden administration provides clear assurances that service providers like Apple and Google won’t face penalties under a pending ban.
The controversy stems from a bipartisan law signed in April requiring TikTok to sell its U.S. operations to American buyers or face a nationwide ban. On Friday, the Supreme Court upheld the ban, citing national security concerns over TikTok’s ties to China.
While the Biden administration indicated it would leave enforcement to President-elect Donald Trump, TikTok said the lack of explicit assurances leaves service providers vulnerable to steep fines. The company urged for immediate action to avoid shutting down.
TikTok CEO Shou Chew reaffirmed the company’s commitment to protecting users’ free speech and expressed hope that the incoming administration would address the issue. Trump, who takes office on Monday, has suggested he may work to resolve the matter, potentially delaying the ban.
The law penalizes violations with significant fines, leaving TikTok and related companies in limbo as they await clarity from the new administration.
