Due to potential cyber security risks, the European Commission has prohibited its employees from owning or using TikTok, a social media site owned by the Chinese company Bytedance.
“The measure aims to protect the commission against cybersecurity threats and actions, which may be exploited for cyberattacks,” The New York Times quoted EU spokesperson Sonya Gospodinova as saying.
The Chinese app will no longer be allowed on official devices or any personal devices that include work-related data and applications starting on March 15, according to an email sent to EU employees and obtained by The Times.
However, the commission emphasised that the rule was only a temporary measure necessary to address growing worries about cyber security threats, particularly in light of the escalating rumours that Chinese authorities may be spying on the activities of TikTok users.
But, TikTok has denied allegations that it gives the Chinese government access to users’ personal information.
“We believe this suspension is wrong and based on fundamental misconceptions,” TikTok said in response to the restriction.
