Well, That Was Quick

The Removal and Return of Tiktok

Photo by Olivier Bergeron on Unsplash

On Jan. 18, at approximately 10:30 p.m. EST, Tiktok was shut down for American users after Congress passed a law banning the app due to concerns that the platform’s relation to China poses a security threat. 

The app shut down with a message stating, “TikTok isn't available right now because it’s been banned. However, President Trump plans to help us come up with a solution, so keep an eye out.”

Before the ban, some users made nostalgic videos about the platform, while others posted confessions, and some even cried. After the ban, users such as influencer Katie Fang used VPNs to bypass it, while others forced themselves to accept the loss. 

Despite all this panic, Tiktok returned 12 hours later on the afternoon of Jan. 19. It came back with a message that stated, “Welcome back! Because of President Trump’s efforts, TikTok is back!” Users reacted happily but also felt embarrassed about their behavior before the ban, and were bewildered at its quick return. 

However, despite users' excitement for the return of the app, it isn’t fully back just yet. Tiktok is no longer found on app stores, meaning Americans who delete the app won't be able to redownload it. 

As of now, the ban has been postponed for 75 days by Trump to see if U.S. investors can buy into the platform. If no investors buy the platform, the app will disappear once again.