TikTok is worried about a US law that could ban it unless it is sold. The law aims to protect American user data from China. TikTok and ByteDance claim they have no connection to the Chinese government. They filed a lawsuit arguing that the law violates the rights of their 170 million American users.
During a court hearing in Washington DC, TikTok’s lawyer argued that the law restricts free speech without solid evidence of wrongdoing. The lawyer highlighted that TikTok’s ownership is a Cayman Islands company, not a Chinese one. However, judges expressed concerns about Chinese control over the company.
Creators, like Tiffany Cianci, fear the law may limit their choices. She livestreamed outside the courthouse and questioned the security concerns used to justify the law.
TikTok’s fate hangs in the balance as the court decides its future. The case could eventually reach the Supreme Court.
Vocabulary List:
- Restricts /rɪˈstrɪkts/ (verb): To limit or control something.
- Violation /vaɪəˈleɪʃən/ (noun): The act of breaking a rule or law.
- Jurisdiction /ˌdʒʊərɪsˈdɪkʃən/ (noun): The official power to make legal decisions and judgments.
- Concerns /kənˈsɜrnz/ (noun): Worries or doubts about something.
- Connection /kəˈnɛkʃən/ (noun): A relationship or association between two or more things.
- Livestreamed /ˈlaɪv.striːmd/ (verb): To broadcast live video over the internet.
How much do you know?
What is the primary concern for TikTok regarding a US law?
How many American users are affected by the potential ban of TikTok?
What is the ownership structure of TikTok according to its lawyer?
What location held the court hearing regarding TikTok?
What is one of the concerns expressed by judges about TikTok?
What is one of the fears of creators like Tiffany Cianci regarding the law?
