A TikTok Ban? Again? Yes, but in the US.
The reason? Same. Chinese administration involved.
The two organizations, ByteDance and TikTok, are obviously against it and have filed an appeal. But, why are people in the US against it?
Well, it isn’t the users who are opposing the law. It’s the millions of creators who rely on the app for their livelihood. They have also taken the streets and digital space in protesting against the law.
Why The TikTok Ban?
Back in June 2020, India banned the China-backed app TikTok because of privacy and security concernswhich was switched to a permanent ban in 2021. The recent law to ban TikTok in the US comes with the same concerns.
With more than 45 million users in the United States, ByteDance and TikTok are understandably concerned about this recent official ruling.
According to the Justice Department, TikTok poses national security risks due to its ties to China, raising the possibility that Chinese authorities could request ByteDance to share data on U.S. users or even tamper with the platform’s content.
The US TikTok User Demographics
Approximately 16.75% of all TikTok visits originate from the United States, which accounts for nearly three times as many visits as any other country.
As of September 2024, the top five countries by proportion of TikTok visits are:
- United States– 16.75% (415.4 million visits)
- Brazil – 6.1% (151.4 million visits)
- Indonesia – 4.12% (102.2 million visits)
- Mexico – 3.75% (93 million visits)
- United Kingdom – 2.98% (73.8 million visits)
Notably, Indonesia boasts the largest TikTok audience in terms of average usage, with users spending an average of 41 hours and 35 minutes per month on the platform.
List of Top TikTokers of US (Excluding Brands & Actors)
Where Else is TikTok Banned?
TikTok faces widespread restrictions globally due to national security and privacy concerns. Numerous countries and government entities have banned the app on official devices, primarily citing risks of potential data sharing with the Chinese government.
Key highlights
- The United States is considering a nationwide Tiktok ban unless ByteDance divests the app
- Over 25 countries and regions have implemented partial or full bans
- Bans are most common on government-issued devices
- Reasons include cybersecurity risks, privacy concerns, and fears of potential Chinese government influence
Regions with significant restrictions include
- North America: United States (federal agencies and many states) and Canada
- Europe: European Union institutions, United Kingdom, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Norway, Latvia
- Asia: India (full nationwide ban), Taiwan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nepal
- Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
TikTok has consistently denied sharing data with the Chinese government and continues to challenge these restrictions.
How are the TikTok Stars or Creators Impacted?
The government has urged ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, to divest its stakes. If this doesn’t happen and the platform shuts down, it would significantly impact content creators and users who rely on it for income and entertainment.
Recent threats to TikTok ban have escalated, leading to concerns about a potential ban in just six weeks, although a Supreme Court appeal is still possible.
Chris Mowrey, a Democratic social media influencer with 470,000 followers, expressed his fears, stating, “I’m realizing that a lot of what I worked for could disappear.” He highlighted the economic damage this could cause for small businesses and creators.
TikTok, a massively popular app with three billion total downloads and 50 million daily active users, is facing significant regulatory challenges in the United States. The potential nationwide ban could have profound consequences for creators who have built their careers on the platform.
Key Impacts on Creators
1. Career Disruption
Many creators like Tara Blair Ball (a relationship coach) and Stepz (a music artist) have leveraged TikTok’s unique algorithm and viral potential to build their audiences and careers.
2. Platform Dependency
Some businesses, like Legalpreneur, rely heavily on TikTok for client acquisition, with nearly zero advertising budget. A ban would dramatically reduce their ability to reach new clients.
3. Unique Opportunities Lost
Creators like Monique, who runs the Skinfiltrator channel, appreciate TikTok’s non-discriminatory algorithm that has allowed her to connect with diverse audiences, including international dermatologists.
Recommended Strategies
The article suggests creators should:
- Diversify across multiple platforms
- Build their own distribution channels
- Create exclusive off-platform content
- Develop strong brand loyalty
- Establish direct connections with their audience
What Should the Creators Do About the TikTok Ban?
The recent federal appeals court ruling that could potentially ban TikTok in the United States has sent shockwaves through the creator community. With the platform’s future uncertain, content creators need a strategic approach to protect their careers and communities.
Immediate Action Steps
1. Diversify Your Social Media Presence
Creators should immediately start building and cross-promoting their accounts on alternative platforms. This means actively growing followers on Instagram, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), and Threads. Don’t just create accounts—start posting consistently, repurposing content, and engaging with audiences across these platforms.
2. Preserve Your Community
Your audience is your most valuable asset. Begin communicating clearly with your followers about where they can find you if TikTok disappears. Use your TikTok bio, video captions, and live streams to direct followers to your other social media accounts and potentially your email list or website.
3. Download Your Content
TikTok allows creators to download their videos. Take immediate action to save your content library. This archive can be repurposed on other platforms and serves as a backup of your creative work.
Long-Term Strategy
- Build a Personal Brand Beyond Platforms
- Explore Multiple Revenue Streams
- Patreon or similar membership platforms
- Affiliate marketing
- Sponsored content across multiple platforms
- Digital products or courses related to your niche
- Learn Platform-Specific Content Strategies
Invest in creating a website or newsletter that you own completely. Platforms come and go, but a strong personal brand transcends any single social media channel. Consider starting a blog, podcast, or creating a more permanent online presence that isn’t dependent on a single platform.
Don’t rely solely on TikTok’s creator fund or brand deals. Explore:
Each social media platform has unique content requirements and audience expectations. Invest time in understanding how to create native content for Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and other short-form video platforms.
Emotional and Professional Resilience
It’s natural to feel anxious about the potential TikTok ban. Remember that your creativity and connection with your audience matter more than any single platform. Many successful creators have pivoted and rebuilt their following multiple times.
Practical Considerations
- Keep an eye on legal developments
- Stay informed about potential resolutions
- Be prepared to act quickly
The Silver Lining
This uncertainty is an opportunity to become a more versatile, resilient creator. Platforms may change, but authentic content and genuine audience connection remain constant.
Final Advice
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. The TikTok ban situation is a wake-up call for creators to build more sustainable, platform-independent careers. Start diversifying now, and view this as a chance to expand your creative horizons.
Remember: Your talent, creativity, and connection with your audience are your true assets—not the platform where you currently create content.
