New York: After the recent lifting of the TikTok ban in the U.S., users are raising concerns about potential censorship on the platform. Many who previously viewed TikTok as a space for free expression now claim the app feels different, with heightened content moderation and restricted features.
This comes after the app, owned by China’s ByteDance, was reinstated following an executive order from President Donald Trump. The ban was initially implemented due to national security concerns under bipartisan support during the Biden administration. TikTok is currently required to sell to a U.S. buyer, and several bidders, including individuals with ties to the Trump administration, are reportedly in the mix.
What Users Are Observing
Since its revival, some TikTok users say:
- Fewer Livestreams: Many report reduced availability of live content.
- Increased Content Flags: Posts and comments are being removed or flagged for guideline violations, including previously acceptable behavior.
- Limited Search Results: Users note restricted access to certain search queries.
- Misinformation Warnings: Prompts urging users to verify sources are appearing more frequently.
A TikTok spokesperson responded, stating:
“Our policies and algorithms did not change over the weekend. Temporary instability may impact features or user access as we restore operations to normal.”
Specific Incidents Reported
Some high-profile cases have further fueled censorship concerns:
- Content Moderation on Sensitive Topics
Users claimed phrases like “Free Palestine” and “Free Luigi” were being struck down. TikTok clarified it does not allow content promoting violence or hate.
- Sharing Restrictions on Satire
Comedian Pat Loller, with 1.3 million followers, shared a satirical video about Elon Musk’s controversial gesture at an inauguration. The video, tagged as misinformation, faced sharing limitations.
- Suspended Accounts
Danisha Carter, a political commentator with 2 million followers, had her account permanently suspended after TikTok’s brief shutdown. TikTok cited “multiple policy violations” but provided no detailed explanation.
- Random Strikes on Innocuous Comments
Ada “Mila” Ortiz, a data analyst, received policy strikes for benign comments on other videos. She later deleted 15 videos with pro-Vice President Kamala Harris and anti-Trump content.
Political Backdrop
President Trump signed an executive order emphasizing freedom of speech on social media platforms, including TikTok. However, users like Lisa Cline reported difficulty posting critical videos about Trump, suggesting inconsistencies in how the policy is enforced.
Trump has also publicly supported Elon Musk as a potential buyer for TikTok, further intertwining the platform’s future with political and corporate interests.
Growing Concerns Among Users
Many TikTok users believe the platform is targeting specific demographics or ideologies. While TikTok has denied such accusations, the sudden moderation changes have left users feeling alienated.
As TikTok’s ownership remains in limbo, questions about its future and the balance between security, free speech, and TikTok censorship remain unanswered.
