After years of bipartisan concerns about TikTok’s national security risks, users may face a new threat: an algorithm controlled by the U.S. The recent agreement announced by the Trump administration aims to determine TikTok’s future, resolving months of uncertainty marked by temporary bans and shifting deadlines. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt indicated that a new U.S.-led board will control the app, with six out of seven seats held by Americans. Additionally, Oracle, a major tech company, will oversee data privacy and the algorithm.
The specifics of a U.S.-controlled algorithm remain unclear, raising questions about the potential influence of trending right-wing content or ideologies. Details on who will shape the algorithm are also sparse. Despite this, many are concerned about the implications of such control, especially given Trumpโs history of weaponizing data and his loyal supporters in tech. The agreement with China has yet to be finalized, with indications that they remain cautious about the deal.
Should TikTok evolve similarly to other platforms that have been distorted under political influences, it could signal a troubling trend for social media, turning it into another tool for manipulation rather than a neutral public forum. However, there remains the option for users to disengage from these platforms and reclaim their attention spans.
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TikTokโs Algorithm Will Soon Be โControlled By Americaโ
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