ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, has admitted that employees illegally accessed data from two American journalists. The affected employees have already been fired, the email said.
TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew wrote in another email that the misconduct was inconsistent with the video service’s values. The New York Times newspaper had previously reported on the incident. The former employees of ByteDance would have gained access to the data during a failed investigation in the summer.
TikTok soon to be banned in the US?
According to a person familiar with the case, four people have been laid off, two in China and two in the United States. TikTok is currently under increasing pressure in the US. MPs from both parties have introduced bills to ban the video app. A few weeks ago, FBI Chief Chris Wray warned that the Chinese government could use the app to take control of millions of US citizens’ data. They can also manipulate the software’s recommendation algorithms to exert influence.
Several US state governments have already banned the installation of TikTok on devices under their jurisdiction. The Chinese government has dismissed the espionage allegations, but is likely to rekindle the debate with the current admission.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
