The Canadian government has ordered TikTok to halt its operations nationwide, citing national security concerns related to the TikTok app and its parent company, ByteDance Ltd. Despite the shutdown order, users in Canada confirmed that they still have access to the app. The company has been ordered to wind up its business in the country.
This decision follows a rigorous multi-step review by Canadian intelligence agencies aimed at assessing potential security risks tied to TikTok’s operations in the country.
“The government is taking action to address the specific national security risks related to ByteDance Ltd’s operations in Canada through the establishment of TikTok Technology Canada Inc.,” Innovation Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne said on Wednesday.
Champagne also confirmed why the access to the app has not been restricted. He said that the decision to use a social media app is a personal choice. However, users should adopt good cybersecurity practices, including protecting their personal information.
TikTok responded swiftly, confirming it plans to challenge the government’s decision in court. “Shutting down TikTok’s Canadian offices and destroying hundreds of well-paying local jobs is not in anyone’s best interest, and today’s shutdown order will do just that,” the company stated.
Canada previously banned TikTok from government-issued devices in 2023, citing privacy and security concerns related to data access and user tracking. This latest move escalates Canada’s stance on the popular social media platform amid ongoing global debates around data privacy and national security.
