tech
February 1, 2026
‘It’s really sad’: US TikTok users rethink app over concerns about privacy and censorship
Some users are stepping away from the app after it made a deal to create a US entity and updated terms and conditions
TL;DR
- TikTok users in the US are reducing their usage or deleting the app due to concerns about its new ownership structure and updated terms and conditions.
- Reasons cited include potential censorship, privacy issues related to data collection (including sensitive information), and a perceived lack of trust in the new entity.
- A new US-based entity, TikTok USDS Joint Venture, has been formed with significant investment from US entities, including Oracle.
- Reports of technical glitches and suppressed content, particularly content critical of former President Trump and ICE, have fueled user apprehension.
- Data shows a significant increase in TikTok app deletions in the US following these developments.
- Creators like Keara Sullivan and Meg Stalter have expressed disappointment and are exploring alternative platforms.
- California Governor Gavin Newsom announced an investigation into potential censorship of anti-Trump content on TikTok.
Continue reading the original article