(Ottawa) – Canada has directed ByteDance Ltd., the Chinese parent company of TikTok, to shut down its subsidiary within the country, citing concerns over national security. However, the popular social media app will still be accessible to Canadians, despite the closure of the Canadian unit.
According to Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne, the decision came after a thorough national security review, which incorporated findings and recommendations from Canada’s security and intelligence agencies. The review underscored potential risks tied to the app’s Chinese ownership and its handling of user data, which has raised concerns across various countries.
Canada’s move to shutter ByteDance’s Canadian subsidiary is part of a broader effort to address these concerns. In early 2023, Canada joined the United States and European Union in banning TikTok from government-issued devices. This action reflected the growing apprehension among Western governments about the security implications of Chinese-owned technology companies and their access to sensitive data.
Table: Key Actions Against TikTok in Western Countries
Country | Action Taken | Year Implemented | Reason |
---|---|---|---|
Canada | Ban on government devices, closure of subsidiary | 2023, 2024 | National security concerns |
United States | Ban on government devices | 2023 | Data privacy and national security |
European Union | Ban on government devices | 2023 | Security risks related to data access |
The shutdown order specifically impacts ByteDance’s business operations within Canada but does not prevent Canadian users from accessing TikTok on their personal devices. However, the company’s presence within the country will be limited as Canada joins other nations concerned with the implications of allowing foreign technology firms to operate domestically.
Canada’s government has been consistent in voicing concerns over data privacy, especially when data collected from Canadians could potentially be accessed by foreign governments.