The world seemed to have panicked as U.S. citizens were unable to get into the TikTok app just a month ago.
There was much speculation about why the app was banned in the first place. It was then reported that this ban was to prevent China from capturing any data of the app’s users. Many citizens were alarmed and frightened at the idea that the government could rip something away for personal use.
With the new presidential term starting last month, President Donald Trump signed an executive order granting the app a 75-day extension. This gives citizens hope as their favorite app seems to look like it is not going anywhere. However, the ban on TikTok had many citizens worried as it was being treated as a national security concern. Others thought this ban was a stupid decision or an overreaction.
Jan. 19 did not only impact the average users of the app however, the ban impacted any influencers who had profited off the app. This was some influencers’ main source of income or how someone gained popularity to strive in other aspects of life such as inspiring artists or actors.
College students or people in their twenties were a huge target audience for the app. Many people in their twenties were sad to hear the news of the potential ban of the beloved app.
Elena Smith, a Mercy University student, thought the ban was unconstitutional.
“I think our current administration is banning apps, and that is the first sign of fascism and communism.”
Smith, continued to share her thoughts on the situation
“It’s really weird that he wasn’t even President yet (Trump) and when the app came back on everyone thanked him. I think they say the ban was for security reasons but I think it’s deeper than that, that’s just my personal opinion on it.”
Kari Tate, another college student, shared her concerns with the ban of the beloved app.
“I am personally a big fan of TikTok so when I heard it was being banned it kind of sucked. It also shows a new perspective of the world with the different amount of influencers there.”
Tate continued to share how this can impact little things within your life.
“It also gives a bunch of great ideas, especially with New York City with scenarios like date nights and going out for fun and everything. I’m glad it is back but it causes a bunch of distress to humanity because it gives them that fake perspective of the world. How amazing it can be but in reality, the places you visit won’t always be to the top tier.”
Ryken Kutner, a Mercy University student, shared his unique opinion on the matter.
“I think the whole ban was pretty stupid because if you’re trying to steal my data I don’t care – steal it.”
Kutner continued to share what makes the app so great.
“I love the community it creates, the vibe of TikTok is so much better than anything like YouTube. I don’t really understand why it is getting banned. It’s so stupid.”
Kutner gave a final statement regarding the entire ban of the app.
“Also, I think with people our age media literacy is very low so that’s it is a possibility if they want to affect politics. With that banning TikTok should not be the solution to making kids aware of modern propaganda and how it can influence your daily life should be better taught. Better media literacy is so important nowadays, especially with how much Gen Z consumes daily.”
Influencers are in high spirits as they are able to use the app which has been the reason for their livelihood. However, citizens are still distressed as something personal to them can be gone within an instant.
Jaidyn Warmington, another Mercy University student, shared his thoughts regarding the ban.
“I didn’t really think much about it, I just felt bad about the creators, the people that have an income when it comes to the app. However, personally, I wasn’t affected by the app.”
