The perception of TikTok as a potential national security threat has gained traction among certain groups, although it does not resonate universally. According to a recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, 59 percent of American adults perceive TikTok as a danger. However, this viewpoint differs significantly based on whether individuals use the platform or not. Merely nine percent of TikTok users consider it a major threat, while 36 percent of non-users share the same concern. Overall, 42 percent of users perceive some level of risk, whereas 65 percent of non-users express worry.
Unsurprisingly, age plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions of TikTok. Among users under the age of 30, only 49 percent view TikTok as a potential threat, with merely 13 percent considering it a major one. However, these figures rise substantially among older demographics. Approximately 65 percent of those over 65 harbor concerns about TikTok, with 46 percent of this group deeming it a critical threat. Political affiliation also influences perspectives, as a staggering 76 percent of conservatives express concern compared to 49 percent of liberals who share the sentiment.
Pew’s study further reveals that around 64 percent of American adults possess some level of apprehension regarding TikTok’s data handling practices. Again, this statistic fluctuates based on age. Only 54 percent of individuals under 30 hold such concerns, while 75 percent of those over 65 are worried.
The survey was conducted around the time Montana implemented a law prohibiting TikTok in the state, following the call for national bans by politicians from both major US parties. Additionally, TikTok is already banned on most federal devices. The rationale behind these actions often echoes a common theme—officials are apprehensive that ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, may compromise American users’ data or manipulate algorithms to disseminate pro-China propaganda.
TikTok has consistently denied allegations of Chinese government influence and has taken various measures to reassure US politicians. These measures include storing US data domestically, providing transparency into its code, and terminating employees who inappropriately access sensitive data. However, these efforts have done little to assuage government representatives, and the Pew data suggests that the public shares a similar wariness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about TikTok’s national security perceptions
What percentage of American adults perceive TikTok as a national security threat?
According to the Pew Research Center survey, 59 percent of American adults see TikTok as a danger.
How does the perception of TikTok as a national security threat vary among users and non-users?
Only nine percent of TikTok users consider the platform a major threat, while 36 percent of non-users share the same concern. In total, 42 percent of users perceive some level of risk compared to 65 percent of non-users.
Does age play a role in shaping perceptions of TikTok’s national security implications?
Yes, age significantly influences perceptions. Among users under 30, only 49 percent view TikTok as a potential threat, while 65 percent of those over 65 harbor concerns about TikTok.
What is the impact of political affiliation on perceptions of TikTok as a national security threat?
A whopping 76 percent of conservatives express concern compared to 49 percent of liberals who share the sentiment.
How many American adults are worried about TikTok’s data handling practices?
Approximately 64 percent of American adults possess some level of apprehension regarding TikTok’s data handling practices, according to the Pew Research Center survey.
What measures has TikTok taken to address national security concerns?
TikTok has taken steps such as storing US data domestically, offering transparency into its code, and terminating employees who inappropriately access sensitive data. However, these measures have not alleviated concerns among government representatives or the public.
More about TikTok’s national security perceptions
- Pew Research Center Survey
- Montana law banning TikTok
- TikTok’s measures to address national security concerns
