The European Commission bans the use of TikTok to its members

The European Commission (EC) informed its staff on February 23, 2023, that the use of the TikTok app would be prohibited. The measure covers professional but also personal devices with Commission apps.

“In order to protect Commission data and strengthen its cybersecurity, the CE’s board decided to suspend TikTok on work and personal devices that are registered with the Commission’s mobile device services,” explained the email sent out to all Commission staff.

The latter have until the 15^th of March, 2023, to delete TikTok from their mobile devices. Those who do not comply with this directive will be banned from using Commission apps.

In November, 2022, a Forbes investigation revealed TikTok was used to spy on journalists. The social media then admitted that users’ personal data throughout the world could be accessed by HQ in China.

At the end of December, 2022, the United States banned TikTok on all government employee devices. A nationwide ban is potentially in the works.

“We are disappointed by this decision, which seems uncalled for and unfounded. We have been in touch with the Commission to set the record straight and explain how we protect the data of the 125 million monthly TikTok European Union users,” commented a TikTok spokesperson.

In Canada, the Office of the Privacy Commissioner announced on February 23, 2023, that it was launching an investigation into TikTok, which will be led jointly with three provinces.