The UK has become the latest major jurisdiction to ban government devices. The move is part of broader restrictions on third-party apps on government devices.
“Today, we are banning the use of this app on government devices because the security of government sensitive information must be a top priority. “The use of other data extraction apps will continue to be reviewed.”
Dowden That this is a precautionary measure. “We know that TikTok usage is already restricted across governments, but it’s also good cyber hygiene,” he said.
The ban is intended to protect sensitive data on government devices and prevent the collection of location data, etc. The measure applies to personal devices owned by government employees, ministers, or members of the public. It will not be. Additionally, the UK government only allows employees to use third-party apps on official devices if they are on an approved list.
There are exceptions to the TikTok ban if the app is needed for business purposes, such as law enforcement or people working on projects related to online harm. These exceptions are granted on a case-by-case basis and security measures should be taken.
TikTok requires users to give permission for apps to access certain information stored on their phones and tablets, such as location data and contacts. Officials say they are concerned about how the data will be used.
Leaders in many countries and other regions have expressed concern that China could gain access to the data of its residents and officials through TikTok. ByteDance, which owns TikTok, is headquartered in Beijing. Many legislatures serve dozens of states, and .
On Wednesday, it was widely reported (and confirmed by TikTok) that the U.S. government has or is facing an outright ban in the country. Several laws are in the works that ban TikTok or call for the power to ban it. The reported development comes nearly three years after former President Donald Trump tried to force his ByteDance to sell his TikTok, and a week before TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew did. .
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