Will TikTok Be Banned in the U.S. in January 2025?
Everything You Need to Know

TikTok’s future in the United States faces serious uncertainty due to a new law requiring its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to divest its ownership by January 19, 2025, or face a nationwide ban. This law, signed by President Biden, is a response to ongoing concerns about national security and data privacy, specifically regarding potential data sharing with the Chinese government. The situation is currently being challenged in court by ByteDance and TikTok, and the decision could impact millions of users across the U.S.

Background on the TikTok Ban

TikTok, the globally popular short-form video platform, has long been a subject of scrutiny among U.S. lawmakers and intelligence agencies due to its ownership by ByteDance, a Beijing-based company. Officials argue that Chinese ownership poses national security risks, potentially allowing the Chinese government to gain access to sensitive information about American users. These concerns have intensified as tensions between the U.S. and China have escalated over various geopolitical issues, including technology control and data security.

The primary fear is that TikTok could allow the Chinese government to influence U.S. public opinion or even compromise national security by accessing personal data of American users. These concerns have driven legislative moves over the years, from former President Trump’s attempts to ban TikTok in 2020 to Montana’s recent state-level ban, which was challenged in court for infringing on free speech rights.

The New Law: ByteDance’s Options

In April 2024, President Biden signed a law that gives

ByteDance two options:

1. Sell TikTok to a non-Chinese company that would be approved by the U.S. government.

2. Face a complete ban on TikTok in the U.S., potentially cutting off the platform’s 170 million U.S. users.

ByteDance and TikTok have filed lawsuits against this law, asserting that a ban would infringe on Americans’ First Amendment rights. The company claims that users have the right to access information and express themselves on platforms of their choice, including TikTok, and that a forced sale would unfairly disrupt its business operations. ByteDance also argues that complying with the U.S. government’s demands by January 2025 is not feasible, especially as the Chinese government has stated it would not allow key TikTok technology, such as its recommendation algorithm, to be exported.

Key Court Battles and Potential Outcomes

The first hearing in this case was held in the U.S. Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C., where TikTok and ByteDance’s legal teams argued against the necessity and legality of the U.S. government's demands. The main legal issue here is whether the forced sale of TikTok, based on national security concerns, justifies overriding Americans’ rights to freedom of speech and free access to information.

The ruling expected by December 2024 could go one of two ways:

• If the courts rule in favor of ByteDance and TikTok, this would likely prevent an immediate ban, though the U.S. government might continue to push alternative restrictions.
• If the ruling favors the U.S. government, ByteDance would be forced to either sell TikTok by January 19, 2025, or face a U.S. ban on the platform.

Given the stakes, legal experts believe that the case may ultimately reach the Supreme Court, especially due to its implications for digital platforms, user rights, and national security.

What This Means for TikTok Users

The impending ban has raised concerns among TikTok’s extensive user base in the United States, which includes creators, influencers, businesses, and casual users. The ban would result in users losing access to their accounts, favorite content, and even monetization opportunities that many have built over years. Some users argue that this situation infringes upon their freedom of expression, as TikTok has become a major platform for political discourse, social movements, and creative communities.

For content creators and businesses that rely heavily on TikTok for audience engagement and revenue, this ban could mean the need to pivot to alternative social media platforms, such as Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, or emerging networks like Triller or Clapper.

FOR CREATORS AND PROFESSIONALS:

The Importance of Building an Email List as a Reliable Backup

With the possibility of TikTok’s exit from the U.S. market, one of the biggest lessons for businesses and creators is the importance of building an email list. Unlike social media platforms that are subject to regulation, competition, and potential shutdowns, an email list is a reliable and lasting way to stay connected with your audience. This way, even if TikTok or any other platform is banned, your followers are just an email away, allowing you to stay engaged with them no matter what happens to social platforms.

Creating an email list ensures that your brand remains resilient and adaptable, helping you avoid dependency on any one platform.

If you’re ready to build a sustainable brand presence and diversify your digital marketing strategy, it’s time to invest in learning about email marketing, social media strategy, and audience building.

Check out the UBC Course under “Products” on my website for a professional roadmap to building your brand.