TikTok Faces New Ban Threats in the US: What’s Next?
Image: Algi Febri Sugita / Shutterstock
TikTok is once again at risk in the US. With new legal moves and court rulings, users, creators, and brands are all left wondering what happens next—and how to adapt.
Why TikTok Is Under Fire
Firstly, the federal government passed a law last April—the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act. It demands that apps like TikTok, owned by China-based ByteDance, be sold off or banned by January 19, 2025.
Then, the Supreme Court upheld the law on January 17, 2025, saying it didn't violate free-speech rights. That moved the deadline closer, and the clock is ticking.
What Happened on January 19–20?
On January 18, TikTok briefly went dark because ByteDance hadn’t sold the app. Then, on January 19, President Trump, newly inaugurated, issued an executive order delaying enforcement for 75 days.
Furthermore, Trump hinted at a deal: US investors could own 50% of TikTok, with China’s approval. That move had bipartisan reactions—some loved it, others raised legal and security flags.
What Could Happen
TikTok could be removed from app stores like Apple and Google. That means no new downloads or updates, eventually making the app unstable or unusable.
Existing users may keep using it for a while. But once updates stop, security risks grow and features break.
Users might take it underground. VPNs could allow access, though that may breach the terms of service or US law.
Content creators and influencers risk losing a massive platform. Many are already scouting new homes, like Instagram Reels or YouTube Shorts.
Why This Is Bigger Than Just TikTok
Secondly, this scenario isn't isolated. It opens the door for worldwide regulation of apps tied to foreign adversaries like China, Russia, Iran, or North Korea.
Moreover, neighboring countries are watching closely. Canada, EU nations, and governments already restrict TikTok on official devices. A broader US ban could fuel global tech policy changes.
What Experts and Politicians Are Saying
Meanwhile, Trump argues banning TikTok lets American apps compete and promotes digital sovereignty.
On the flip side, experts warn that splitting TikTok's ownership, especially if ByteDance remains tied to China, may not fix the national security concerns.
Also, privacy advocates state that banning a mainstream platform could set a precedent, potentially undermining free expression.
What TikTok and ByteDance Are Doing
Still, TikTok is fighting back. They’ve argued in court that the law is flawed and plan to appeal.
Additionally, ByteDance has no intention of selling TikTok, according to insiders. That stance risks pushing the platform off US shores, for good this time.
What This Means for You
Furthermore, here’s what users and creators should expect:
App removal risk – If TikTok is pulled from stores, you’ll need backups. Save videos and profiles.
Security concerns – No updates = increased vulnerabilities.
Platform shift – Be ready to move content to other apps.
VPN use – Some might try it, but it carries legal gray areas.
Watch for bailouts – A divestiture deal or another delay could save TikTok temporarily.
What Could Change Things
Moreover, the next few weeks are pivotal:
Supreme Court could review appeals – That might delay or reset timelines.
Trump’s executive orders – Further postponements or divestment directives could follow.
Congress could update laws – Either hardening bans or opening paths for sales.
What Brands Must Know
For companies using TikTok for marketing:
Reevaluate budgets – Consider reallocating to other platforms.
Save your content – Preserve videos, brand pages, and audience data.
Test alternatives – IG Reels, YouTube Shorts, Snapchat Spotlight, even RedNote/Xiaohongshu are gaining attention.
Final Word
In short, TikTok’s US future hangs in the balance. The legal groundwork is set for a ban, yet executive actions and court battles could extend its life. But with a looming deadline and policy momentum, assuming TikTok will survive unchanged isn’t safe.
That means creators, users, and brands should be smart: prepare backups, diversify your audience, and stay alert.