A lot of people have been wondering why the TikTok app has recently been removed from the Google Play Store. But worry not, we’re here to shed some light on it. In this blog, we’ll talk about app removal and what it means for you. We’ll also touch upon the risks that come with using the app.
Why did the TikTok app get removed from the Google Play Store in recent days?
That is the reason why the TikTok app has been removed from the Google store and app store by the government. This app was very controversial earlier when it was found to be collecting data of users without their consent or knowledge. The app also reportedly flashed age restrictions by default and hid sensitive content from children.
The Chinese government had banned the app on a national level and many states of the United States have also imposed a ban on this app. Citizens of these states complained about privacy issues, among others, due to data collected by the TikTok app by the Chinese government.
The reasons behind blocking the app might be manifold, but the main focus here is that data collected by this app can be misused by third parties without the user’s consent or knowledge. So, if you have used this app before and plan to use it again, make sure you read any data policies or terms before using it
What are the implications of the removal of the TikTok app from the Google Play Store?
The removal of the TikTok app from the app store by Apple and Google has raised security concerns among users. The app carried personal data on users, be it their name or their profile picture, or even their video or audio. This data could be used by a third party to access that user’s account and make unauthorized changes. The app is also banned by many federal government agencies in the US, leading to its removal from devices used by these agencies. In short, the app could be detrimental to the user’s security.
As a result, the Senator has requested the app be removed by July 8 with a need to explain their reasons for not doing so by July 24. Besides this, if other platforms are not allowing the app to be used due to its personal data concerns, then it would be important for Apple and Google to apprise users of why they have taken such a decision.
TikTok’s popularity may be hit by the app’s removal from the app store. As more users switch to Android and iOS platforms, the app might see a dip in its user base as well.
Why did Google remove the TikTok app from the Google Play Store?
Earlier this month, US Senator Josh Hawley from Missouri wrote a letter to Apple and Google asking them to remove the Tik Tok app from their respective app stores. In his letter, he said that security concerns have been the main focus of the removal and fears of US citizens’ personal data ending up in the hands of the Chinese government have arisen following reports by security agencies such as the FBI and NSA.
Although warnings against using the app by law enforcement agencies haven’t stopped users from doing so, many have been voicing their concerns over its ownership by China-based ByteDance Inc. The app was removed by Google and Apple on July 8th or explain the reasons for non-removal by July 24th. It seems that Google is willing to listen to its users’ voices, which is a great step by it.
What are the risks associated with using the TikTok app?
A few years ago, the popular app TikTok was banned by various government agencies, especially by the US government. It is now popular among American users and has become the third-most popular social media app in the US. With its large user base and capability to access the personal data of users, there are many risks associated with using it.
The key reason why the app has been banned by various governments is due to security concerns. The app can access user data without proper consent and could be misused by the Chinese government or any other entity. Besides, it is easy for hackers to access user data through the app. As a result, it is important to delete the app from your device as soon as possible to safeguard yourself against any threat.
Conclusion
The app was removed from the store by Google acting upon user reports. The app has been accused of causing data security and privacy breaches, as well as tracking user locations and uploading user data without their permission. Though the app had been available on the store for a while, it seems that user concerns escalated over time and led to its removal by Google. You can read more about app data security risks here. Comment below if we have missed any other app security risks that could affect you or your business.