TikTok Faces Mass Exodus as US Users Delete App Following Trump-Linked Takeover
The number of TikTok users uninstalling the app in the United States has skyrocketed by nearly 150 per cent in recent weeks. This dramatic surge coincides with the takeover of TikTok's American operations by an investment group with strong allegiances to former President Donald Trump. The move has ignited widespread concerns over potential censorship and data security, prompting a significant shift in user behaviour across the social media landscape.
Censorship Allegations and Official Investigations
Users have reported alarming instances where videos critical of Donald Trump and the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency appeared to receive no views, effectively being suppressed. Additionally, attempts to send messages containing the word 'Epstein' were reportedly blocked within the platform. In response to these allegations, California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a formal state probe. This investigation will examine whether TikTok's actions constitute content censorship, which could potentially violate California law.
TikTok's Response and Technical Explanations
TikTok has acknowledged these incidents but has firmly denied any intentional censorship. The company attributes the problems to widespread technical glitches caused by a significant power outage at one of its US data centres. A spokesperson explicitly stated that TikTok does not have any rules prohibiting users from sharing the name Jeffrey Epstein. Despite these explanations, public trust appears to be eroding rapidly.
Rival Apps Benefit from Privacy and Ownership Concerns
The combination of fears regarding TikTok's new ownership under Trump allies and its recently updated privacy policy has driven a substantial migration of users to alternative platforms. Apps such as Skylight and UpScrolled have reported a significant increase in downloads as people seek out social media environments they perceive as more secure and less politically influenced. This trend underscores growing public anxiety about data sovereignty and free expression in the digital age.
The situation remains fluid, with ongoing investigations and user reactions likely to shape the future of social media competition and regulation in the United States.
