<p>TikTok is spurred by a new trend - “carrot tan”.&nbsp;A new beauty trend claiming that eating three carrots a day will give you a natural beautiful tan. But the question is how true that is and how healthy it is? The question is simple but the answer is not.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Carrots are rich in cartenoid, a natural pigment that gives red, orange and yellow colours to fruits and vegetables. There are many types of cartenoids - lutein, lycopene, alpha-carotene and beta-carotene. It is beta-carotene (a cartenoid) that is responsible for a carrot’s vibrant orange colour.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Do carrots really affect your skin colour?</strong></h2>

<p>As per basic biology, once a beta-carotene containing food like carrot is digested, cells break it down into two molecules of vitamin A (also known as retinol). This vitamin A is then used in various critical bodily functions such as vision, reproduction, immunity and growth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But our body is in full control of this entire process of conversion of beta-carotene into vitamin A. Which is why, based on what our body needs, our body convert the beta-carotene accordingly- like slowing it down or stopping the conversion process into vitamin A entirely.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/europes-oldest-shoes-researchers-find-6000-year-old-sandals-in-spanish-bat-cave-641176">Europe’s oldest shoes: Researchers find 6,000-year-old sandals in Spanish bat cave</a></p>

<p>All the extra beta-carotene is then stored in the liver, fat tissue, excreted, or removed via sweat glands in the outer layer of the skin. This is when the orange skin “tan” can possibly happen. And if that happens, then it is called carotenoderma.</p>

<p>Carotenoderma gives your skin a yellow/orange pigment that is not the same colour you would turn from a sun tan. It is concentrated in the palms of the hands, the soles of the feet and smile lines near the nose.</p>

<p>Beta-carotene is also found in parsley, basil, chives, chilli powder, sun-dried tomatoes and some dietary supplements.</p>

<h2><strong>Consumption matters when it comes to carrots</strong></h2>

<p>As per experts, consuming few carrots then and now won’t make any difference to your skin colour (if they can at all).&nbsp;</p>

<p>No high quality trials have been conducted to test the relationship between number of carrots eaten per day and skin colour changes or other outcomes.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sycamore-gap-police-arrests-man-in-60s-amid-reports-of-tree-felling-part-of-tiktok-stunt-641196">Sycamore Gap: Police arrests man in 60s amid reports of tree felling part of TikTok stunt</a></p>

<p>But as per one published case report, one patient was found eating around three kilogrammes of carrots per week (about seven large carrots a day), which induced colour changes to his skin.</p>

<p>Other experts suggest you would need to eat at least ten carrots per day, for at least a few weeks, for colour changes to occur. The amount of carrots needed to change skin colour will also depend on the variety of carrot and person's health.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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TikTok is spurred by a new trend - “carrot tan”. A new beauty trend claiming that eating three carrots a day will give you a natural beautiful tan. But the question is how true that is and how healthy it is?

TikTok is spurred by a new trend - “carrot tan”. A new beauty trend claiming that eating three carrots a day will give you a natural beautiful tan. But the question is how true that is and how healthy it is? The question is simple but the answer is not. Carrots are rich in cartenoid, a natural pigment that gives red, orange and yellow colours to fruits and vegetables. There are many types of cartenoids - lutein, lycopene, alpha-carotene and beta-carotene. It is beta-carotene (a cartenoid) that is responsible for a carrot’s vibrant orange colour. Do carrots really affect your skin colour? As per basic biology, once a beta-carotene containing food like carrot is digested, cells break it down into two molecules of vitamin A (also known as retinol). This vitamin A is then used in various critical bodily functions such as vision, reproduction, immunity and growth. But our body is in full control of this entire process of conversion of beta-carotene into vitamin A. Which is why, based on what our body needs, our body convert the beta-carotene accordingly- like slowing it down or stopping the conversion process into vitamin A entirely. Also Read | Europe’s oldest shoes: Researchers find 6,000-year-old sandals in Spanish bat cave All the extra beta-carotene is then stored in the liver, fat tissue, excreted, or removed via sweat glands in the outer layer of the skin. This is when the orange skin “tan” can possibly happen. And if that happens, then it is called carotenoderma. Carotenoderma gives your skin a yellow/orange pigment that is not the same colour you would turn from a sun tan. It is concentrated in the palms of the hands, the soles of the feet and smile lines near the nose. Beta-carotene is also found in parsley, basil, chives, chilli powder, sun-dried tomatoes and some dietary supplements. Consumption matters when it comes to carrots As per experts, consuming few carrots then and now won’t make any difference to your skin colour (if they can at all). No high quality trials have been conducted to test the relationship between number of carrots eaten per day and skin colour changes or other outcomes. Also Read | Sycamore Gap: Police arrests man in 60s amid reports of tree felling part of TikTok stunt But as per one published case report, one patient was found eating around three kilogrammes of carrots per week (about seven large carrots a day), which induced colour changes to his skin. Other experts suggest you would need to eat at least ten carrots per day, for at least a few weeks, for colour changes to occur. The amount of carrots needed to change skin colour will also depend on the variety of carrot and person's health. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

What is 'carrot tan'? New TikTok trend claiming of natural tan, how true it is?

There's a new TikTok trend in which girls are flaunting their boyfriends' glow up. It's called The "girlfriend effect". How real is it? Do you agree with it?

Gravitas: What is the girlfriend effect?

<p>We've all heard that being in a relationship makes people gain weight, but did you know it can actually make men hotter?</p>

<p>A new trend on TikTok, popularly known as the "girlfriend effect", claims just that. Here's all you need to know about it.</p>

<h2><strong>The girlfriend effect</strong></h2>

<p>It has emerged as a trend on popular short video format application TikTok. The so-called girlfriend effect apparently comes with hard proof.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/private-astronaut-prepares-for-highest-ever-skydive-640587">73-year-old private astronaut prepares for highest ever skydive in five-person formation</a></strong></p>

<p>Women have been posting videos of their boyfriends' glow ups, which they take the credit for.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="pt">o girlfriend effect é muito real né? olhem meu namorado antes de me conhecer vs depois de começar a namorar cmg <a href="https://t.co/VcK5Dm3M60">pic.twitter.com/VcK5Dm3M60</a></p>
— pand (@entzycrown) <a href="https://twitter.com/entzycrown/status/1707184954134626603?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Nigerian babes no get “the girlfriend effect” 😭 <a href="https://t.co/QX1LjOuPgO">pic.twitter.com/QX1LjOuPgO</a></p>
— trent (@ham33d_0) <a href="https://twitter.com/ham33d_0/status/1706055059044266045?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">“the girlfriend effect” is sooo real cuz he looked ugly fr when we first started dating lol</p>
— sev (@hoesluvsev) <a href="https://twitter.com/hoesluvsev/status/1706954453104910753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Will being in a relationship turn me into Tom Cruise?</strong></h2>

<p>Well, no. Being in a relationship will not turn you into Tom Cruise (or the hottest man you can think of), but it is an undeniable fact that women do tend to "help" or push their partners into dressing better.</p>

<p>As the New York Post puts it, "Women step in and help men find a style and look that suits them, and suddenly they look hotter."</p>

<h2><strong>Is it all good?</strong></h2>

<p>Every coin has two sides and, as some users have pointed out, even the 'girlfriend effect' has its negatives.</p>

<p>As per LADbible, many TikTokers have expressed concern that the trend is potentially depersonalising men's wardrobe. What it means is that caught up in a relationship, men may be potentially losing what makes them... them.</p>

<p>One user @velveteenrabbit, in a now viral video, explained that women unintentionally risked "overhauling their boyfriends and completely redesigning them".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yeah-theyre-gone-musk-fires-election-integrity-team-ahead-of-2024-election-season-640609">'Yeah, they’re gone...': Musk fires election integrity team ahead of 2024 election season</a></strong></p>

<p>"If this woman is helping him find a more tasteful way of executing his personal style, that's one thing. But a lot of women are not doing that," said the user, adding that "they are just purely telling their boyfriends what to wear and getting rid of any sort of personal style that these boys have accumulated for themselves."</p>

<p>Videos on the girlfriend effect have taken over TikTok and you may even find some on X, Facebook and Instagram.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Funny how the Wife/Girlfriend effect is men glowing up and looking happier and better, and Husband/Boyfriend effect is women looking more stressed and less put together. Mhhhmmm</p>
— Milly (@Millyywayy) <a href="https://twitter.com/Millyywayy/status/1707272204868858158?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>This has so sparked a counter trend called the 'boyfriend air' in which women share photos of themselves looking dishevelled, "less put together", and spending less time looking after themselves.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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We've all heard that being in a relationship makes people gain weight, but did you know it can actually make men hotter? A new trend on TikTok, popularly known as the "girlfriend effect", claims just that.

We've all heard that being in a relationship makes people gain weight, but did you know it can actually make men hotter? A new trend on TikTok, popularly known as the "girlfriend effect", claims just that. Here's all you need to know about it. The girlfriend effect It has emerged as a trend on popular short video format application TikTok. The so-called girlfriend effect apparently comes with hard proof. Also read | 73-year-old private astronaut prepares for highest ever skydive in five-person formation Women have been posting videos of their boyfriends' glow ups, which they take the credit for. o girlfriend effect é muito real né? olhem meu namorado antes de me conhecer vs depois de começar a namorar cmg pic.twitter.com/VcK5Dm3M60 — pand (@entzycrown) September 28, 2023 × Nigerian babes no get “the girlfriend effect” 😭 pic.twitter.com/QX1LjOuPgO — trent (@ham33d_0) September 24, 2023 × “the girlfriend effect” is sooo real cuz he looked ugly fr when we first started dating lol — sev (@hoesluvsev) September 27, 2023 × Will being in a relationship turn me into Tom Cruise? Well, no. Being in a relationship will not turn you into Tom Cruise (or the hottest man you can think of), but it is an undeniable fact that women do tend to "help" or push their partners into dressing better. As the New York Post puts it, "Women step in and help men find a style and look that suits them, and suddenly they look hotter." Is it all good? Every coin has two sides and, as some users have pointed out, even the 'girlfriend effect' has its negatives. As per LADbible, many TikTokers have expressed concern that the trend is potentially depersonalising men's wardrobe. What it means is that caught up in a relationship, men may be potentially losing what makes them... them. One user @velveteenrabbit, in a now viral video, explained that women unintentionally risked "overhauling their boyfriends and completely redesigning them". Also read | 'Yeah, they’re gone...': Musk fires election integrity team ahead of 2024 election season "If this woman is helping him find a more tasteful way of executing his personal style, that's one thing. But a lot of women are not doing that," said the user, adding that "they are just purely telling their boyfriends what to wear and getting rid of any sort of personal style that these boys have accumulated for themselves." Videos on the girlfriend effect have taken over TikTok and you may even find some on X, Facebook and Instagram. Funny how the Wife/Girlfriend effect is men glowing up and looking happier and better, and Husband/Boyfriend effect is women looking more stressed and less put together. Mhhhmmm — Milly (@Millyywayy) September 28, 2023 × This has so sparked a counter trend called the 'boyfriend air' in which women share photos of themselves looking dishevelled, "less put together", and spending less time looking after themselves. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

From sloppy to stylish: TikTok's 'girlfriend effect' show women really make men look hotter

<p>In a blow to Chinese short video app TikTok, the Indonesian government on Wednesday banned e-commerce transactions on social media platforms. The country's Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan made the announcement saying the government was attempting to protect offline merchants, marketplaces and small businesses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hasan said the predatory pricing on social media platforms had been threatening the livelihood of small and medium-sized enterprises that could not compete with the monopolistic policies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This trade regulation has been in force (since yesterday)," said Hasan, adding that&nbsp;“the connection [between social media and e-commerce] must be separated so that the algorithm is not all controlled” and this “prevents the use of personal data” for business purposes.</p>

<p>The regulation effectively means that social media companies will not be able to conduct direct transactions on the platform albeit only promote the products on the platforms.&nbsp;The social commerce platforms have a week to comply with the new rule, according to Hasan.</p>

<p>Additionally, the new regulation mandates that e-commerce platforms in the country&nbsp;set a minimum price of $100 for certain items that are directly purchased from abroad.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indonesian-shaman-promised-to-multiply-money-580270"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Indonesian Shaman promised to multiply money</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Blow for TikTok?</strong></h2>

<p>The diktat set by Jakarta is set to land a devastating blow to ByteDance-owned TikTok's e-commerce ambitions in the country. The Southeast Asian nation is TikTok's second-largest&nbsp;market with 113 million users, just behind the US which has 116.5 million TikTok users, according to DataReportal.</p>

<p>E-commerce transactions in Indonesia accounted for nearly $52 billion last year and 5 per cent of it took place on TikTok, making it a lucrative financial opportunity for the social media giant.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-in-talks-with-indonesia-over-upi-linkage-rupee-trade-settlement-616335"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India in talks with Indonesia over UPI linkage, rupee trade settlement</strong></a></p>

<p>With almost 125 million active users on the platform, TikTok had doubled down its expansion plans. According to a CNBC report,&nbsp;TikTok’s CEO Shou Zi Chew in an interview said the company was&nbsp;“going to invest billions of dollars in Indonesia and Southeast Asia over the next few years".&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the announcement by the government, TikTok released a statement saying the company hoped that the new regulations would keep in mind the affiliate creators, connected with the app.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Social commerce was born to solve a real world problem for local traditional small sellers, by matching them with local creators who can help drive traffic to their online shops,” a TikTok spokesperson said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“While we respect local laws and regulations, we hope that the regulations take into account its impact on the livelihoods of more than 6 million sellers and close to 7 million affiliate creators who use TikTok Shop,” they added.</p>

<p>Notably,&nbsp;Indonesia was one of the first few markers where TikTok launched TikTok shop to leverage its large user base.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
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In a blow to Chinese short video app TikTok, the Indonesian government on Wednesday banned e-commerce transactions on social media platforms. The country's Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan made the announcement saying the government was attempting to protect offline merchants, marketplaces and small businesses.

In a blow to Chinese short video app TikTok, the Indonesian government on Wednesday banned e-commerce transactions on social media platforms. The country's Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan made the announcement saying the government was attempting to protect offline merchants, marketplaces and small businesses. Hasan said the predatory pricing on social media platforms had been threatening the livelihood of small and medium-sized enterprises that could not compete with the monopolistic policies. "This trade regulation has been in force (since yesterday)," said Hasan, adding that “the connection [between social media and e-commerce] must be separated so that the algorithm is not all controlled” and this “prevents the use of personal data” for business purposes. The regulation effectively means that social media companies will not be able to conduct direct transactions on the platform albeit only promote the products on the platforms. The social commerce platforms have a week to comply with the new rule, according to Hasan. Additionally, the new regulation mandates that e-commerce platforms in the country set a minimum price of $100 for certain items that are directly purchased from abroad. Watch | Gravitas: Indonesian Shaman promised to multiply money × Blow for TikTok? The diktat set by Jakarta is set to land a devastating blow to ByteDance-owned TikTok's e-commerce ambitions in the country. The Southeast Asian nation is TikTok's second-largest market with 113 million users, just behind the US which has 116.5 million TikTok users, according to DataReportal. E-commerce transactions in Indonesia accounted for nearly $52 billion last year and 5 per cent of it took place on TikTok, making it a lucrative financial opportunity for the social media giant. Also read | India in talks with Indonesia over UPI linkage, rupee trade settlement With almost 125 million active users on the platform, TikTok had doubled down its expansion plans. According to a CNBC report, TikTok’s CEO Shou Zi Chew in an interview said the company was “going to invest billions of dollars in Indonesia and Southeast Asia over the next few years". After the announcement by the government, TikTok released a statement saying the company hoped that the new regulations would keep in mind the affiliate creators, connected with the app. “Social commerce was born to solve a real world problem for local traditional small sellers, by matching them with local creators who can help drive traffic to their online shops,” a TikTok spokesperson said. “While we respect local laws and regulations, we hope that the regulations take into account its impact on the livelihoods of more than 6 million sellers and close to 7 million affiliate creators who use TikTok Shop,” they added. Notably, Indonesia was one of the first few markers where TikTok launched TikTok shop to leverage its large user base. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Blow to TikTok: Indonesia bans e-commerce deals on social media to protect offline traders, small businesses

<p>In an effort to create a friendly work environment, TikTok has started an internal matchmaking service for employees, giving them a platform to introduce their friends and family members to their colleagues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The channel, which is known as Meet Cute, is placed on the workplace tool used by thousands of employees of TikTok around the world for video conferencing and document hosting. The platform is also helping people discover a potential romantic partner from among their own colleagues, reports The Guardian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The platform Meet Cute, which was first reported by Forbes, allows their employees to advertise their family, friends or acquaintances to their colleagues through a feed of posts which show information which is typically seen in dating apps, like a person's height and weight.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesian-woman-jailed-for-eating-pork-after-reciting-islamic-phrase-and-then-posting-on-tiktok-638089">Indonesian woman jailed for eating pork after reciting Islamic phrase, and then posting on TikTok</a></p>

<p>The service also lets employees comment on the shared posts and evaluate the people whose information has been shared on the feed. In the introduction of Meet Cute, it states, "The company is not responsible for mediating disputes.”</p>

<h2><strong>Technical bug giving access to ByteMoments to employees across world</strong></h2>

<p>The platform, which has been placed on the intranet forum of the company called ByteMoments, is mostly used by employees based in China. However, the staff across the world use ByteMoments for doing their daily jobs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A spokesperson, while speaking to Forbes, stated that the Meet Cute function was “specifically designed as an optional offering for mainland China employees” and that a technical bug permitted employees to use the channel in other countries.</p>

<p>The channel has a note which warns that employees should not share the personal information of staff along with a reminder that it is a platform created for introducing individuals who are outside of the company to employees of ByteDance.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;TikTok's big bet on E-commerce</strong></p>

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<p>ByteDance in China has never tried to hide its attempts to become a matchmaker for employees. The company has introduced internal matchmaking services previously, with one titled the 175 Project.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the Chinese language news outlet Tech Planet, other tech platforms like Huawei, Meituan and Alibaba provide matchmaking services or dating forums to their employees.</p>

<p>TikTok employees, who interacted with Forbes, said that the attempt of the company to facilitate matchmaking felt like an “encroachment on personal boundaries”.</p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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In an effort to create a friendly work environment, TikTok has started an internal matchmaking service for employees, giving them a platform to introduce their friends and family members to their colleagues.

In an effort to create a friendly work environment, TikTok has started an internal matchmaking service for employees, giving them a platform to introduce their friends and family members to their colleagues. The channel, which is known as Meet Cute, is placed on the workplace tool used by thousands of employees of TikTok around the world for video conferencing and document hosting. The platform is also helping people discover a potential romantic partner from among their own colleagues, reports The Guardian. The platform Meet Cute, which was first reported by Forbes, allows their employees to advertise their family, friends or acquaintances to their colleagues through a feed of posts which show information which is typically seen in dating apps, like a person's height and weight. ALSO READ | Indonesian woman jailed for eating pork after reciting Islamic phrase, and then posting on TikTok The service also lets employees comment on the shared posts and evaluate the people whose information has been shared on the feed. In the introduction of Meet Cute, it states, "The company is not responsible for mediating disputes.” Technical bug giving access to ByteMoments to employees across world The platform, which has been placed on the intranet forum of the company called ByteMoments, is mostly used by employees based in China. However, the staff across the world use ByteMoments for doing their daily jobs. A spokesperson, while speaking to Forbes, stated that the Meet Cute function was “specifically designed as an optional offering for mainland China employees” and that a technical bug permitted employees to use the channel in other countries. The channel has a note which warns that employees should not share the personal information of staff along with a reminder that it is a platform created for introducing individuals who are outside of the company to employees of ByteDance. WATCH | TikTok's big bet on E-commerce ByteDance in China has never tried to hide its attempts to become a matchmaker for employees. The company has introduced internal matchmaking services previously, with one titled the 175 Project. As per the Chinese language news outlet Tech Planet, other tech platforms like Huawei, Meituan and Alibaba provide matchmaking services or dating forums to their employees. TikTok employees, who interacted with Forbes, said that the attempt of the company to facilitate matchmaking felt like an “encroachment on personal boundaries”. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

TikTok plays cupid: The company offers matchmaking service for staff

<p>A 33-year-old Indonesian woman was jailed for two years for eating pork after reciting an Islamic phrase and posting the whole act on TikTok.</p>

<p>Earlier this week, a court in South Sumatra city found Lina Lutfiawati, who goes by the name Lina Mukherjee, guilty of "inciting hatred" against religious individuals and groups.</p>

<p>She has been fined 250 million rupiah ($25,200), and if she fails to pay, then her jail term will be extended by three months.</p>

<p>Indonesia, a Muslim-majority country, forbids eating pork and those found guilty can also be tried under blasphemy laws.</p>

<p>According to reports, Lina was travelling in Bali when she made the controversial TikTok video. Bali is the only place in Indonesia where Hindus are in the majority.</p>

<h2><strong>Video went viral in March</strong></h2>

<p>The matter came to light in March after the controversial TikTok video went viral.</p>

<p>In the video, Lina can be heard saying “Bismillah”, which means “in the name of God” in Arabic.</p>

<p>The clip gained millions of views and was widely criticised,&nbsp;prompting&nbsp;another Indonesian to report her to the police for "knowingly eating pork skin as a Muslim".</p>

<p>Then in May, Lina was charged for disseminating hateful information, saying it was an act of hostility over ethnicity, religion, and race.</p>

<p>Many conservative groups across the country also issued rulings calling the video blasphemous. They included the Ulema Council, Indonesia's top Muslim clerical body.</p>

<h2><strong>TikToker runs a business in India&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Lina is a lifestyle influencer who has more than two million TikTok followers. She also runs a business in India.</p>

<p>The whole episode has left the Indonesian people divided on social media, according to BBC.</p>

<p>While some have praised the judge and called Lina's actions blasphemous, others have criticised Lina’s jail sentence, noting that the jail terms meted out for corruption cases are often much lower.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-passes-stricter-hijab-bill-proposes-10-years-in-jail-for-mocking-defying-dress-code-638074">Iran passes stricter hijab bill: 10 years in jail for ‘mocking’ dress code</a></p>

<p>Lina's is the latest in a string of blasphemy cases in the country.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-biden-exits-stage-without-shaking-hands-with-brazils-lula-in-awkward-moment-638080">Watch: Biden exits stage without shaking hands with Brazil’s Lula in awkward moment</a></p>

<p>Last year, Indonesian police arrested six people on charges of blasphemy after a bar promoted free alcohol for patrons named Mohammed. Drinking alcohol is forbidden in Islam.</p>

<p>Former governor of Indonesia’s capital Jakarta, Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, better known as Ahok, was jailed for nearly two years on controversial blasphemy charges in 2017.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A 33-year-old Indonesian woman was jailed for two years for eating pork after reciting an Islamic phrase and posting the whole act on TikTok. Earlier this week, a court in South Sumatra city found Lina Lutfiawati, who goes by the name Lina Mukherjee, guilty of "inciting hatred" against religious individuals and groups.

A 33-year-old Indonesian woman was jailed for two years for eating pork after reciting an Islamic phrase and posting the whole act on TikTok. Earlier this week, a court in South Sumatra city found Lina Lutfiawati, who goes by the name Lina Mukherjee, guilty of "inciting hatred" against religious individuals and groups. She has been fined 250 million rupiah ($25,200), and if she fails to pay, then her jail term will be extended by three months. Indonesia, a Muslim-majority country, forbids eating pork and those found guilty can also be tried under blasphemy laws. According to reports, Lina was travelling in Bali when she made the controversial TikTok video. Bali is the only place in Indonesia where Hindus are in the majority. Video went viral in March The matter came to light in March after the controversial TikTok video went viral. In the video, Lina can be heard saying “Bismillah”, which means “in the name of God” in Arabic. The clip gained millions of views and was widely criticised, prompting another Indonesian to report her to the police for "knowingly eating pork skin as a Muslim". Then in May, Lina was charged for disseminating hateful information, saying it was an act of hostility over ethnicity, religion, and race. Many conservative groups across the country also issued rulings calling the video blasphemous. They included the Ulema Council, Indonesia's top Muslim clerical body. TikToker runs a business in India Lina is a lifestyle influencer who has more than two million TikTok followers. She also runs a business in India. The whole episode has left the Indonesian people divided on social media, according to BBC. While some have praised the judge and called Lina's actions blasphemous, others have criticised Lina’s jail sentence, noting that the jail terms meted out for corruption cases are often much lower. Also read | Iran passes stricter hijab bill: 10 years in jail for ‘mocking’ dress code Lina's is the latest in a string of blasphemy cases in the country. Also read | Watch: Biden exits stage without shaking hands with Brazil’s Lula in awkward moment Last year, Indonesian police arrested six people on charges of blasphemy after a bar promoted free alcohol for patrons named Mohammed. Drinking alcohol is forbidden in Islam. Former governor of Indonesia’s capital Jakarta, Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, better known as Ahok, was jailed for nearly two years on controversial blasphemy charges in 2017. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indonesian woman jailed for eating pork after reciting Islamic phrase, and then posting on TikTok

<p>Chinese-owned social media platform TikTok was slapped with a fine of €345 million ($369 million) over child data breaches on Friday (September 15) in the latest salvo of the bloc against the tech titans' business practices.<br />
<br />
The fine was decided after the two-year inquiry carried out by Ireland's Data Protection Commission (DPC) culminated.<br />
<br />
The Irish watchdog, which has been playing an important role in policy the strict General Data Protection Regulations of the EU, gave three months to TikTok "to bring its processing into compliance" with its rules.</p>

<p>In September 2021, the DPC started examining the compliance of TikTok with GDPR in relation to personal data processing and platform settings for users aged under 18 years old.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tiktok-banned-by-new-york-city-on-government-owned-devices-over-security-concerns-626232">TikTok banned by New York City on government-owned devices over security concerns</a></p>

<p>It also investigated the verification measures of TikTok for people under the age of 13 and no infringement was found but discovered that the platform failed to properly assess the risks to younger people, who have registered on the service.<br />
<br />
In its ruling on Friday (September 15), the regulator highlighted how the accounts of children on TikTok were set to public by default after they signed up, which meant anyone could view or comment on the content they uploaded.<br />
<br />
It further criticised the "family pairing" mode of TikTok which has been designed to link the accounts of parents to those of their children, however, the DPC figured out that the company failed to verify the status of the parent or guardian.<br />
<br />
Ireland has been at the centre of the GDPR regime because the European headquarters of TikTok as well as Google, Meta and X are in Dublin.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Children fall prey to TikTok's 'Egg Crack Challenge'</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>TikTok says it 'respectfully disagrees'</strong></h2>

<p>Responding to the fine imposed, TikTok stated that it "respectfully disagrees" with the verdict and has been "evaluating" how to proceed.<br />
<br />
"The DPC's criticisms are focused on features and settings that were in place three years ago, and that we made changes to well before the investigation even began, such as setting all under 16 accounts to private by default," said a TikTok spokesperson, while speaking to AFP.<br />
<br />
The platform stated that it has been closely monitoring the age of its users and will take action when needed. TikTok stated around 17 million accounts were deleted worldwide in the first three months of this year because of suspicions that they were created by people under 13 years old.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Chinese-owned social media platform TikTok was slapped with a fine of €345 million ($369 million) over child data breaches on Friday (September 15) in the latest salvo of the bloc against the tech titans' business practices.

Chinese-owned social media platform TikTok was slapped with a fine of €345 million ($369 million) over child data breaches on Friday (September 15) in the latest salvo of the bloc against the tech titans' business practices. The fine was decided after the two-year inquiry carried out by Ireland's Data Protection Commission (DPC) culminated. The Irish watchdog, which has been playing an important role in policy the strict General Data Protection Regulations of the EU, gave three months to TikTok "to bring its processing into compliance" with its rules. In September 2021, the DPC started examining the compliance of TikTok with GDPR in relation to personal data processing and platform settings for users aged under 18 years old. ALSO READ | TikTok banned by New York City on government-owned devices over security concerns It also investigated the verification measures of TikTok for people under the age of 13 and no infringement was found but discovered that the platform failed to properly assess the risks to younger people, who have registered on the service. In its ruling on Friday (September 15), the regulator highlighted how the accounts of children on TikTok were set to public by default after they signed up, which meant anyone could view or comment on the content they uploaded. It further criticised the "family pairing" mode of TikTok which has been designed to link the accounts of parents to those of their children, however, the DPC figured out that the company failed to verify the status of the parent or guardian. Ireland has been at the centre of the GDPR regime because the European headquarters of TikTok as well as Google, Meta and X are in Dublin. WATCH | Gravitas: Children fall prey to TikTok's 'Egg Crack Challenge' TikTok says it 'respectfully disagrees' Responding to the fine imposed, TikTok stated that it "respectfully disagrees" with the verdict and has been "evaluating" how to proceed. "The DPC's criticisms are focused on features and settings that were in place three years ago, and that we made changes to well before the investigation even began, such as setting all under 16 accounts to private by default," said a TikTok spokesperson, while speaking to AFP. The platform stated that it has been closely monitoring the age of its users and will take action when needed. TikTok stated around 17 million accounts were deleted worldwide in the first three months of this year because of suspicions that they were created by people under 13 years old. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

European Union slaps TikTok with fine of $369 million over child data breaches

<p>A short video series has reportedly gone viral on Chinese version of TikTok. The series, titled 'Escape from The British Museum' shows journey of a Chinese artefact back to China. This has added to general clamour about demands from various countries that British Museum should return cultural relics taken forcibly during the times of the British Empire.</p>

<p>The video series shows a jade teapot from the British Museum assuming a human form. It then tries to escape the museum and return to China with the help of a Chinese journalist it meets on the streets of London.</p>

<p>The teapot is a real artefact stored in the British Museum. It is however, not exactly a cultural relic. It was made in 2011 by a Chinese artist who is an expert in intricate jade carvings.</p>

<p>Although it is not a cultual relic going back centuries, the delicate technique to make the carvings is an artform unique to China.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China state media calls on British Museum to return artefacts</strong></p>

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<p>The video series was first released on Douyin, China's version of TikTok. It has reportedly been played 270 million times. The creators of the videos claim to be independent video makers. Their following has substantially increased. Within a week, the number of their followers spiked by five million.</p>

<p>Chinese state media has reacted positively to the video series.</p>

<p>State broadcaster CCTV appeared to praise the videos and the creators.</p>

<p>"We are very pleased to see Chinese young people are passionate about history and tradition… We are also looking forward to the early return of Chinese artefacts that have been displaced overseas," CCTV said as quoted in a&nbsp;BBC report.</p>

<p>The artefacts in the British Museum have long been a matter of debate. The museum has about eight million objects in its collection.</p>

<p>Britain's colonial past has often raised questions on how majority of these artefacts were obtained, whether previous owner explicitly and of their free will consented to donating these artefacts is something that gets debated regularly.</p>

<p>At its height, the British Empire ruled over 23 per cent of world population and controlled 24 per cent of Earth's territory. Well-documented records of colonial plunder, invasions and coercive politics often puts British Museum and modern-day UK in a tight spot.&nbsp;</p>

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A short video series has reportedly gone viral on Chinese version of TikTok. The series, titled 'Escape from The British Museum' shows journey of a Chinese artefact back to China.

A short video series has reportedly gone viral on Chinese version of TikTok. The series, titled 'Escape from The British Museum' shows journey of a Chinese artefact back to China. This has added to general clamour about demands from various countries that British Museum should return cultural relics taken forcibly during the times of the British Empire. The video series shows a jade teapot from the British Museum assuming a human form. It then tries to escape the museum and return to China with the help of a Chinese journalist it meets on the streets of London. The teapot is a real artefact stored in the British Museum. It is however, not exactly a cultural relic. It was made in 2011 by a Chinese artist who is an expert in intricate jade carvings. Although it is not a cultual relic going back centuries, the delicate technique to make the carvings is an artform unique to China. Watch | China state media calls on British Museum to return artefacts × The video series was first released on Douyin, China's version of TikTok. It has reportedly been played 270 million times. The creators of the videos claim to be independent video makers. Their following has substantially increased. Within a week, the number of their followers spiked by five million. Chinese state media has reacted positively to the video series. State broadcaster CCTV appeared to praise the videos and the creators. "We are very pleased to see Chinese young people are passionate about history and tradition… We are also looking forward to the early return of Chinese artefacts that have been displaced overseas," CCTV said as quoted in a BBC report. The artefacts in the British Museum have long been a matter of debate. The museum has about eight million objects in its collection. Britain's colonial past has often raised questions on how majority of these artefacts were obtained, whether previous owner explicitly and of their free will consented to donating these artefacts is something that gets debated regularly. At its height, the British Empire ruled over 23 per cent of world population and controlled 24 per cent of Earth's territory. Well-documented records of colonial plunder, invasions and coercive politics often puts British Museum and modern-day UK in a tight spot. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

'Escape from British Museum': Chinese TikTok video on artefact return becomes a hit

A new TikTok trend, called the 'Egg Crack Challenge', is making parents crack eggs on their children's faces. Videos show children getting confused and crying. Is this trend a form of child abuse? Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Children fall prey to TikTok's 'Egg Crack Challenge'

<p>Three teenagers in the United States’ Kentucky were charged with terroristic threatening after participating in a new TikTok challenge, said the Oldham County Police, in a statement. According to the police, all three students were 15 years old and were charged in separate incidents since the school year began earlier this month.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did the students do?</strong></h2>

<p>As per the New York Post, the teenagers made bomb threats in three separate instances at the Oldham County High School to their teachers since August 9.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incidents that occurred on August 14, 15, and 17 were related to the TikTok challenge which encourages students to record a video of themselves telling a teacher there was a bomb or gun in their backpack as a “joke,” said the county police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two of the three 15-year-olds have been charged with terroristic threatening in the second degree while one of them is charged with terroristic threatening in the third degree, said the police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the students are minors the officials did not release their names and any further identifying details.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a similar incident, a fourth 15-year-old student at nearby South Oldham High School was also charged with harassing communications after supposedly being inspired by the challenge, reported the Post.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Officials warn parents about TikTok challenges</strong></h2>

<p>All four teens have since been suspended and must complete a mental health evaluation before returning to school, district officials have reportedly said in a message to the parents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“As previously communicated in a letter to families regarding terroristic threatening, students who participate in this type of behavior face serious consequences In addition to school-level discipline, students are prosecuted to the greatest extent of the law for making a threat to a public school,” said the district officials, in a message, as quoted by local media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Authorities have also warned parents and children about the numerous TikTok challenges in the past years including the ones encouraging and involving pranksters who kick in doors, and car thefts.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
These challenges have also prompted authorities at the district, state and federal levels of the US government to ban or limit the use of TikTok. Earlier this year, Montana became the first state to ban the app over perceived security concerns.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Three teenagers in the United States’ Kentucky were charged with terroristic threatening after participating in a new TikTok challenge, said the Oldham County Police, in a statement.

Three teenagers in the United States’ Kentucky were charged with terroristic threatening after participating in a new TikTok challenge, said the Oldham County Police, in a statement. According to the police, all three students were 15 years old and were charged in separate incidents since the school year began earlier this month. What did the students do? As per the New York Post, the teenagers made bomb threats in three separate instances at the Oldham County High School to their teachers since August 9. The incidents that occurred on August 14, 15, and 17 were related to the TikTok challenge which encourages students to record a video of themselves telling a teacher there was a bomb or gun in their backpack as a “joke,” said the county police. Two of the three 15-year-olds have been charged with terroristic threatening in the second degree while one of them is charged with terroristic threatening in the third degree, said the police. Since the students are minors the officials did not release their names and any further identifying details. In a similar incident, a fourth 15-year-old student at nearby South Oldham High School was also charged with harassing communications after supposedly being inspired by the challenge, reported the Post. Officials warn parents about TikTok challenges All four teens have since been suspended and must complete a mental health evaluation before returning to school, district officials have reportedly said in a message to the parents. “As previously communicated in a letter to families regarding terroristic threatening, students who participate in this type of behavior face serious consequences In addition to school-level discipline, students are prosecuted to the greatest extent of the law for making a threat to a public school,” said the district officials, in a message, as quoted by local media reports. Authorities have also warned parents and children about the numerous TikTok challenges in the past years including the ones encouraging and involving pranksters who kick in doors, and car thefts. These challenges have also prompted authorities at the district, state and federal levels of the US government to ban or limit the use of TikTok. Earlier this year, Montana became the first state to ban the app over perceived security concerns. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: Teens in Kentucky high school charged with ‘terroristic threats’ over TikTok challenge

Friction between Washington and Beijing continues after limiting the operations of Chinese businesses like TikTok in the United States. The White House is now cracking down on Chinese land ownership.

Restrictions on Chinese land ownership in US, 14 state bills enacted into law since 2021

<p>Somalia has banned a number of social media applications in light of rapidly spreading indecent content and propaganda, said the nation's communication minister in a statement released late on Sunday.</p>

<h2><strong>Which apps have been banned?</strong></h2>

<p>The East African nation has placed a ban on the popular short video format application TikTok, messaging app Telegram and an online betting website 1XBet.</p>

<p>Reuters reports that the government order has given internet service providers time till August 24&nbsp;to comply with the ban.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fifty-four-ugandan-soldiers-killed-by-al-shabaab-militants-in-somalia-600255">Fifty-four Ugandan soldiers killed by al-Shabaab militants in attack on military base in Somalia</a></strong></p>

<p>Somalian communications minister Jama Hassan Khalif's statement, as per Reuters, said: "The minister of communications orders internet companies to stop the aforementioned applications, which terrorists and immoral groups used to spread constant horrific images and misinformation to the public."</p>

<h2><strong>What prompted this ban?</strong></h2>

<p>As per the news agency, the ban comes days after the nation's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud revealed that a Somalian military offensive is aiming to eliminate al Shabaab, an insurgent group, in the next five months.</p>

<p>Members of al Shabaab — a group with linkages to al-Qaeda — often post about their illegal activities on TikTok and Telegram.</p>

<p>While ByteDance's TikTok and betting website 1XBet are yet to issue a comment over the ban, Telegram in its statement said: "Telegram consistently removes terrorist propaganda in Somalia and worldwide."</p>

<p>It also said that it "actively moderated" harmful content on its platform.</p>

<h2><strong>App users criticise the ban</strong></h2>

<p>In Somalia and elsewhere, millions of users use TikTok to make money by posting videos, entertaining content or promoting their products. Talking to Reuters, some Somalian TikTok influencers&nbsp;and content creators said they were against the ban.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tiktok-banned-by-new-york-city-on-government-owned-devices-over-security-concerns-626232">TikTok banned by New York City on government-owned devices over security concerns</a></strong></p>

<p>One user, Abdulkadir Ali Mohamed, who calls himself Somalia's "TikTok President," said: "The ban on TikTok will make the lights of many homes go off."</p>

<p>"Where will we get our daily bread?" he asked.</p>

<p>Another user, Halimo Hassan, who sells precious metal gold on TikTok, expressed worry over losing her customers and said: "I urge the government to allow TikTok for the public, but control how it is used in the cultural context of Somalia."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Somalia has banned a number of social media applications in light of rapidly spreading indecent content and propaganda, said the nation's communication minister in a statement released late on Sunday.

Somalia has banned a number of social media applications in light of rapidly spreading indecent content and propaganda, said the nation's communication minister in a statement released late on Sunday. Which apps have been banned? The East African nation has placed a ban on the popular short video format application TikTok, messaging app Telegram and an online betting website 1XBet. Reuters reports that the government order has given internet service providers time till August 24 to comply with the ban. Also read | Fifty-four Ugandan soldiers killed by al-Shabaab militants in attack on military base in Somalia Somalian communications minister Jama Hassan Khalif's statement, as per Reuters, said: "The minister of communications orders internet companies to stop the aforementioned applications, which terrorists and immoral groups used to spread constant horrific images and misinformation to the public." What prompted this ban? As per the news agency, the ban comes days after the nation's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud revealed that a Somalian military offensive is aiming to eliminate al Shabaab, an insurgent group, in the next five months. Members of al Shabaab — a group with linkages to al-Qaeda — often post about their illegal activities on TikTok and Telegram. While ByteDance's TikTok and betting website 1XBet are yet to issue a comment over the ban, Telegram in its statement said: "Telegram consistently removes terrorist propaganda in Somalia and worldwide." It also said that it "actively moderated" harmful content on its platform. App users criticise the ban In Somalia and elsewhere, millions of users use TikTok to make money by posting videos, entertaining content or promoting their products. Talking to Reuters, some Somalian TikTok influencers and content creators said they were against the ban. Also read | TikTok banned by New York City on government-owned devices over security concerns One user, Abdulkadir Ali Mohamed, who calls himself Somalia's "TikTok President," said: "The ban on TikTok will make the lights of many homes go off." "Where will we get our daily bread?" he asked. Another user, Halimo Hassan, who sells precious metal gold on TikTok, expressed worry over losing her customers and said: "I urge the government to allow TikTok for the public, but control how it is used in the cultural context of Somalia." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Somalia bans TikTok, Telegram to curb spread of 'constant horrific images and misinformation'

In the age of Technology, who does not love social media platforms for unlimited access to Beauty tutorials and hacks like all things this has a downside too. A new Gen-Z trend on TikTok is worrying doctors and this one concerns the use of some screen

#Antisunscreen goes viral on TikTok, doctors raise alarm

<p>The authorities in New York City on Wednesday (August 16) banned TikTok from city-owned devices because of security concerns. They asked the agencies to remove the app within the next 30 days. With the announcement of the ban, NYC has joined a number of US cities and states that have put such restrictions on the short video-sharing app.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after a review by the NYC Cyber Command, in which a city official found TikTok, used by more than 150 million Americans, posed a security threat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>TikTok is owned by Chinese tech giant ByteDance and has faced growing calls from US lawmakers for a nationwide ban over concerns about possible Chinese government influence.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-recreate-pink-floyds-song-from-brainwaves-to-unlock-speech-musicality-for-neurological-patients-626028">Scientists recreate Pink Floyd's song by listening to brainwaves of people; feat to help cure patients</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>City personnel are not permitted to download or use the app or access the TikTok website from any city-owned devices as of right now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The administration of New York City Mayor Eric Adams said in a statement that TikTok "posed a security threat to the city's technical networks."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Employees will no longer have access to the app and its website on city-owned devices and networks if the app is not removed by New York City agencies within the given period of time. On mobile devices provided by the state, TikTok was already prohibited in New York.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-suggests-brains-of-teenage-smokers-may-be-different-from-non-smokers-626125">Study suggests brains of teenage smokers may be different from non-smokers</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted by news agencies, TikTok said it "has not shared, and would not share, US&nbsp;user data with the Chinese government, and has taken substantial measures to protect the privacy and security of TikTok users."&nbsp;</p>

<p>New York City Hall spokesperson told The Verge in a statement on Wednesday: "While social media is great at connecting New Yorkers with one another and the city, we have to ensure we are always using these platforms in a secure manner" and "NYC Cyber Command regularly explores and advances proactive measures to keep New Yorkers' data safe".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The authorities in New York City on Wednesday (August 16) banned TikTok from city-owned devices because of security concerns. They asked the agencies to remove the app within the next 30 days.

The authorities in New York City on Wednesday (August 16) banned TikTok from city-owned devices because of security concerns. They asked the agencies to remove the app within the next 30 days. With the announcement of the ban, NYC has joined a number of US cities and states that have put such restrictions on the short video-sharing app. This comes after a review by the NYC Cyber Command, in which a city official found TikTok, used by more than 150 million Americans, posed a security threat. TikTok is owned by Chinese tech giant ByteDance and has faced growing calls from US lawmakers for a nationwide ban over concerns about possible Chinese government influence. Also read: Scientists recreate Pink Floyd's song by listening to brainwaves of people; feat to help cure patients City personnel are not permitted to download or use the app or access the TikTok website from any city-owned devices as of right now. The administration of New York City Mayor Eric Adams said in a statement that TikTok "posed a security threat to the city's technical networks." Employees will no longer have access to the app and its website on city-owned devices and networks if the app is not removed by New York City agencies within the given period of time. On mobile devices provided by the state, TikTok was already prohibited in New York. Also Read: Study suggests brains of teenage smokers may be different from non-smokers As quoted by news agencies, TikTok said it "has not shared, and would not share, US user data with the Chinese government, and has taken substantial measures to protect the privacy and security of TikTok users." New York City Hall spokesperson told The Verge in a statement on Wednesday: "While social media is great at connecting New Yorkers with one another and the city, we have to ensure we are always using these platforms in a secure manner" and "NYC Cyber Command regularly explores and advances proactive measures to keep New Yorkers' data safe". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

TikTok banned by New York City on government-owned devices over security concerns

The firm revealed new measures it had taken to comply with the DSA. London: Chinese-owned social media platform TikTok has announced a raft of new features for European users aimed at improving compliance with incoming European Union regulations.

TikTok unveils new measures ahead of EU Digital Services Act

There's a new TikTok trend called 'Bed Rotting'. The trend promotes laying on your bed the whole day and doing things you like. Experts have adviced that the trend should be practiced in moderation. Does 'Bed Rotting' have a dark side? Molly Gambhir reports

TikTok trend 'bed rotting' promotes laziness

A new TikTok trend has led to a hospitalisation after a woman drank too much water. Experts say that the fitness challenge is resulting in 'Water Poisoning'. What is the fitness trend all about? What is 'Water Poisoning'?

Gravitas: Tiktok killer trend leads to hospitalisations

<p>An Australian senate committee after investigating how foreign powers could use social media to interfere in the country has recommended a number of rules and restrictions for several platforms, including imposing a ban on Chinese messaging WeChat, on Tuesday (August 1). Months back, the Australian government said it would remove TikTok from all federal government-owned devices over security concerns.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Committee’s recommendation</strong></h2>

<p>The report released on Tuesday, along with a ban on WeChat, also consists of 17 other recommendations, including new transparency rules enforceable by fines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The five-people committee led by Liberal Party Senator and shadow cyber security minister, James Paterson, also called for the ban on TikTok from federal government devices in Canberra to be extended to the devices of government contractors who also have access to Australian government data. This extended ban should also cover WeChat, according to the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lawmakers have said they had been “particularly concerned” with the “unique national security risks” posed by companies like TikTok and WeChat “whose parent companies ByteDance and Tencent respectively, are irrefutably headquartered in and run from authoritarian countries like China”.</p>

<p>It also recommends the government should enforce a set of transparency rules for social media platforms which include, having an Australian presence,&nbsp;labelling state-affiliated media,&nbsp;disclosing content censorship,&nbsp;actions against accounts of elected officials, and government directions about content on their platforms.</p>

<p>If the social media platforms fail to meet the minimum transparency requirements or to abide by the rules, the companies should be fined and banned, as a last resort, at the discretion of the home affairs minister.</p>

<p>The committee also recommended that if the United States government forced ByteDance to divest its stake in TikTok, then the Australian government should also consider similar steps and ensure TikTok Australia is also separated from its China-based parent company.</p>

<p>Paterson told the Senate on Tuesday, how the health of social media networks directly affects the health of the country and foreign “authoritarian states know this”. The committee also recommended that Canberra help developing countries in the Indo-Pacific resist “malicious information operations” by authoritarian states.</p>

<p>“They (authoritarian states) do not permit free debate on their own social media platforms. They use ours as a vector for information operations to shape our decision-making in their national interest – at the expense of our own,” said Paterson, as quoted by The Guardian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said that not all social media platforms are the same since the ability for a social media platform to be “weaponised” varies depending on the laws of the country where it is headquartered.</p>

<h2><strong>WeChat banned on certain Australian government devices</strong></h2>

<p>A report by Guardian Australia, back in April confirmed that the Chinese messaging app was banned in nearly a dozen federal departments, including the department of prime minister and cabinet, the department of foreign affairs and trade and so on.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest recommendations also did not face any pushback from the opposition Labor and the Greens parties but noted that while they were in favour of the proposed transparency framework a nationwide ban on certain apps would not be effective.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>TikTok’s response to the report</strong></h2>

<p>Ella Woods-Joyce, TikTok’s director of public policy for Australia and New Zealand, said that while the company disagrees with some of the characterisations and statements about the Chinese video app, it welcomed that there was a nationwide ban recommended.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We are also encouraged that recommendations largely appear to apply equally to all platforms,” said Woods-Joyce, on Tuesday, as quoted by The Guardian.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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An Australian senate committee after investigating how foreign powers could use social media to interfere in the country has recommended a number of rules and restrictions for several platforms, including imposing a ban on Chinese messaging WeChat, on Tuesday (August 1).

An Australian senate committee after investigating how foreign powers could use social media to interfere in the country has recommended a number of rules and restrictions for several platforms, including imposing a ban on Chinese messaging WeChat, on Tuesday (August 1). Months back, the Australian government said it would remove TikTok from all federal government-owned devices over security concerns. Committee’s recommendation The report released on Tuesday, along with a ban on WeChat, also consists of 17 other recommendations, including new transparency rules enforceable by fines. The five-people committee led by Liberal Party Senator and shadow cyber security minister, James Paterson, also called for the ban on TikTok from federal government devices in Canberra to be extended to the devices of government contractors who also have access to Australian government data. This extended ban should also cover WeChat, according to the report. Lawmakers have said they had been “particularly concerned” with the “unique national security risks” posed by companies like TikTok and WeChat “whose parent companies ByteDance and Tencent respectively, are irrefutably headquartered in and run from authoritarian countries like China”. It also recommends the government should enforce a set of transparency rules for social media platforms which include, having an Australian presence, labelling state-affiliated media, disclosing content censorship, actions against accounts of elected officials, and government directions about content on their platforms. If the social media platforms fail to meet the minimum transparency requirements or to abide by the rules, the companies should be fined and banned, as a last resort, at the discretion of the home affairs minister. The committee also recommended that if the United States government forced ByteDance to divest its stake in TikTok, then the Australian government should also consider similar steps and ensure TikTok Australia is also separated from its China-based parent company. Paterson told the Senate on Tuesday, how the health of social media networks directly affects the health of the country and foreign “authoritarian states know this”. The committee also recommended that Canberra help developing countries in the Indo-Pacific resist “malicious information operations” by authoritarian states. “They (authoritarian states) do not permit free debate on their own social media platforms. They use ours as a vector for information operations to shape our decision-making in their national interest – at the expense of our own,” said Paterson, as quoted by The Guardian. He also said that not all social media platforms are the same since the ability for a social media platform to be “weaponised” varies depending on the laws of the country where it is headquartered. WeChat banned on certain Australian government devices A report by Guardian Australia, back in April confirmed that the Chinese messaging app was banned in nearly a dozen federal departments, including the department of prime minister and cabinet, the department of foreign affairs and trade and so on. The latest recommendations also did not face any pushback from the opposition Labor and the Greens parties but noted that while they were in favour of the proposed transparency framework a nationwide ban on certain apps would not be effective. TikTok’s response to the report Ella Woods-Joyce, TikTok’s director of public policy for Australia and New Zealand, said that while the company disagrees with some of the characterisations and statements about the Chinese video app, it welcomed that there was a nationwide ban recommended. “We are also encouraged that recommendations largely appear to apply equally to all platforms,” said Woods-Joyce, on Tuesday, as quoted by The Guardian. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australian lawmakers recommend WeChat ban on govt devices for posing ‘unique national security risks’

<p>A new TikTok trend that is increasingly becoming popular in the US has raised concerns among health experts who believe that it promotes suicidal thoughts.</p>

<p>Called #FairyFlying, this potentially dangerous trend is said to be inspired by mythical creatures.</p>

<p>The trend encourages millions of users to create fake suicide-by-hanging videos. These clips show a lifeless body swaying in the air, leading many viewers to draw comparisons to “suicide by hanging.”</p>

<p>Though it appears that the people are hanging themselves, the reality is that they are standing on a dresser while their crocs hang onto a wardrobe.</p>

<h2><strong>Trend gaining massive traction</strong></h2>

<p>The trend has so far reached an all-time high of 66 million views till Wednesday.</p>

<p>The Chinese-based social media has responded to the trend saying, “At TikTok, we strictly prohibit and remove content that promotes dangerous behaviour with the safety of our community as a priority.”</p>

<p>However, experts argue that these videos easily bypass the guidelines of TikTok because they are often portrayed in a harmless and a “cute” manner.</p>

<p>A TikToker who was seen doing the challenge and goes by the username @fairypowers123456 presented the content in a "cute" and "preppy" way, which did not attract any response from TikTok.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-blue-whale-washed-ashore-in-andhra-praesh-amid-heavy-rains-620300">India: Blue whale washed ashore in Andhra Pradesh as state battles heavy rains</a></p>

<p>“This trend could trigger possible emotions for individuals who tend to have suicidal tendencies or be equally disturbing for people who have had loved ones attempt or commit suicide previously," Dr Josh Stein told New York Post.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/tiny-surgical-robots-to-make-breakthrough-in-cancer-treatment-with-magnetic-tentacles-620214">Tiny surgical robots to make breakthrough in cancer treatment with magnetic tentacles</a></p>

<p>"Even in the most unknowing of ways, videos that showcase individuals hanging across a room could be disconcerting," Stein was quoted as saying.</p>

<p>When the trend first made its way into TikTok, a lot of users were appalled by it. It’s being argued that when the making of the trend was made available, lot of people were inspired by it, and from there the trend picked up.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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A new TikTok trend that is increasingly becoming popular in the US has raised concerns among health experts who believe that it promotes suicidal thoughts. Called #FairyFlying, this potentially dangerous trend is said to be inspired by mythical creatures.

A new TikTok trend that is increasingly becoming popular in the US has raised concerns among health experts who believe that it promotes suicidal thoughts. Called #FairyFlying, this potentially dangerous trend is said to be inspired by mythical creatures. The trend encourages millions of users to create fake suicide-by-hanging videos. These clips show a lifeless body swaying in the air, leading many viewers to draw comparisons to “suicide by hanging.” Though it appears that the people are hanging themselves, the reality is that they are standing on a dresser while their crocs hang onto a wardrobe. Trend gaining massive traction The trend has so far reached an all-time high of 66 million views till Wednesday. The Chinese-based social media has responded to the trend saying, “At TikTok, we strictly prohibit and remove content that promotes dangerous behaviour with the safety of our community as a priority.” However, experts argue that these videos easily bypass the guidelines of TikTok because they are often portrayed in a harmless and a “cute” manner. A TikToker who was seen doing the challenge and goes by the username @fairypowers123456 presented the content in a "cute" and "preppy" way, which did not attract any response from TikTok. Also read | India: Blue whale washed ashore in Andhra Pradesh as state battles heavy rains “This trend could trigger possible emotions for individuals who tend to have suicidal tendencies or be equally disturbing for people who have had loved ones attempt or commit suicide previously," Dr Josh Stein told New York Post. Also read | Tiny surgical robots to make breakthrough in cancer treatment with magnetic tentacles "Even in the most unknowing of ways, videos that showcase individuals hanging across a room could be disconcerting," Stein was quoted as saying. When the trend first made its way into TikTok, a lot of users were appalled by it. It’s being argued that when the making of the trend was made available, lot of people were inspired by it, and from there the trend picked up. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

New TikTok trend #FairyFlying showing people hanging themselves raises concerns in US

Spotify disrupted the music streaming scene with its large music collection, attractive pricing plans and new offerings such as podcasts. But is it ready to welcome a new competitor in the form of TikTok music?

TikTok launches music streaming & discovery platform

TikTok in the United States has not been in the state's good books for privacy concerns but it is now taking a step ahead to sell China-made goods in the United States by launching an e-commerce platform in the country. Reportedly the platform will be launched in early August. The idea is to give TikTok an edge over other competitors.

TikTok to launch an e-commerce platform

TikTok has a new trend called the 'Borax Train'. People are being encouraged to drink Borax. Influencers say the toxic substance can be consumed to reduce health issues. What are the other 'deadly' TikTok trends? Listen in to Priyanka Sharma.

Gravitas: TikTok influencers urge users to get on the 'Borax Train'

<p>Consumption of borax has become a new fashion on&nbsp;the video-sharing platform TikTok — a trend which could jeopardise the health of those who are participating in it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Borax is the powdered substance often found in laundry detergent and is also available as a cleaning agent on its own. Boric acid is a distinct formulation of boron and is used to kill ants and cockroaches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, videos are going viral with people seen "jumping on the borax train" by adding white powder to smoothies or coffee to relieve the symptoms of arthritis, lupus, or other health conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But experts have said that both borax and boric acid in loose powder form can be harmful if swallowed. They can also irritate your skin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some people on TikTok have incorrectly claimed that adding a pinch to water might reduce inflammation and help with joint pain, despite the fact that borax has been banned in food products in the US. Some even claimed that soaking in borax in the bathtub could "detoxify" the body.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Concerns were raised when several TikTok stars with hundreds of thousands of followers advocated the use of borax in videos. However, they later removed the videos.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by NBC News mentioned that Dr Kelly Johnson-Arbor, who is a toxicology physician and co-medical director at the National Capital Poison Center, often contributes to the centre's website by writing articles that correct the record on harmful health fads.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted, Dr Johnson-Arbor says that ingesting borax might cause stomach inflammation and result in blue-green vomit or diarrhoea. She claims that soaking in borax can cause anaemia and convulsions over time, as well as rashes that make the skin seem as bright pink.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dr Johnson-Arbor said, "There's really nothing to support the use of borax in humans for inflammation or reduction of oxidative stress or anything like that."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Borax viral trend reminds the world of other trends which directly or indirectly impact health and misinformation about personal health can be extremely dangerous.<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Consumption of borax has become a new fashion on the video-sharing platform TikTok — a trend which could jeopardise the health of those who are participating in it.

Consumption of borax has become a new fashion on the video-sharing platform TikTok — a trend which could jeopardise the health of those who are participating in it. Borax is the powdered substance often found in laundry detergent and is also available as a cleaning agent on its own. Boric acid is a distinct formulation of boron and is used to kill ants and cockroaches. Recently, videos are going viral with people seen "jumping on the borax train" by adding white powder to smoothies or coffee to relieve the symptoms of arthritis, lupus, or other health conditions. But experts have said that both borax and boric acid in loose powder form can be harmful if swallowed. They can also irritate your skin. Some people on TikTok have incorrectly claimed that adding a pinch to water might reduce inflammation and help with joint pain, despite the fact that borax has been banned in food products in the US. Some even claimed that soaking in borax in the bathtub could "detoxify" the body. Concerns were raised when several TikTok stars with hundreds of thousands of followers advocated the use of borax in videos. However, they later removed the videos. A report by NBC News mentioned that Dr Kelly Johnson-Arbor, who is a toxicology physician and co-medical director at the National Capital Poison Center, often contributes to the centre's website by writing articles that correct the record on harmful health fads. As quoted, Dr Johnson-Arbor says that ingesting borax might cause stomach inflammation and result in blue-green vomit or diarrhoea. She claims that soaking in borax can cause anaemia and convulsions over time, as well as rashes that make the skin seem as bright pink. Dr Johnson-Arbor said, "There's really nothing to support the use of borax in humans for inflammation or reduction of oxidative stress or anything like that." Borax viral trend reminds the world of other trends which directly or indirectly impact health and misinformation about personal health can be extremely dangerous. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Borax trend viral on TikTok. Expert warns against its dangers to body

<p>After Meta, we have a new giant player entering the microblogging space—TikTok. To rival X (formerly Twitter) and Meta’s newly launched Threads, TikTok has declared it will offer text-only posts on its platform.</p>

<p>TikTok has embedded the new feature in its original app only, against Meta’s separate app. The Chinese company said in a statement that the text-only post option will expand the “boundaries of content creation” on the platform and tap into the “creativity seen in captions and comments”.</p>

<h2><strong>What is TikTok’s text-only post feature?</strong></h2>

<p>The service is similar to what Instagram already offers in 'Stories' feature. The users can generate posts using text on solid colour backgrounds, use music or sound, use stickers and location. Also, the ready-to-post content can be reposted as a video as well.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;TikTok's attempts to reassure government</strong></p>

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<p>Due to TikTok’s massive popularity in the US (150 million users), the new feature is expected to disrupt the microblogging space. Its launch comes after Meta launched its Threads app and US billionaire Elon Musk rebranded his Twitter brand to X, thus further creating ripples on the internet.</p>

<h2><strong>Why TikTok is wading into the microblogging space</strong></h2>

<p>It started after Musk took over Twitter before rebranding it as X, and started implementing changes that ended up confusing and even irritating its users. The users have specifically expressed their frustration with the paid-only features and ‘view limits’ applied to unverified profiles.</p>

<p>Other major threats looming over X are diminishing valuation, major outages and plummeting revenues. However, none of them has led to a drop in X’s popularity among its users.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-700000-tiktok-turkish-accounts-were-hacked-ahead-of-presidential-elections-report-617276"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Turkey: 700,000 TikTok accounts were hacked ahead of presidential elections, says report</strong></a></p>

<p>Subsequently, a couple of competitors garnered interest, such as Mastodon and the more recent Bluesky.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Meta’s Threads: A flop show?</strong></h2>

<p>Meta's Threads, which was launched earlier this month, was perceived as the first significant contender to pose a real threat to Twitter. Threads boasts integration with Instagram and achieved unprecedented growth, attracting over 100 million users within a mere five days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, its initial success was short-lived, witnessing a substantial 70 per cent decline in daily active users since reaching its peak on July 7. This setback has dampened its explosive launch, potentially paving the way for new competitors like TikTok to step in, introducing text features and presenting a formidable challenge to X (Twitter).</p>

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After Meta, we have a new giant player entering the microblogging space—TikTok. To rival X (formerly Twitter) and Meta’s newly launched Threads, TikTok has declared it will offer text-only posts on its platform.

After Meta, we have a new giant player entering the microblogging space—TikTok. To rival X (formerly Twitter) and Meta’s newly launched Threads, TikTok has declared it will offer text-only posts on its platform. TikTok has embedded the new feature in its original app only, against Meta’s separate app. The Chinese company said in a statement that the text-only post option will expand the “boundaries of content creation” on the platform and tap into the “creativity seen in captions and comments”. What is TikTok’s text-only post feature? The service is similar to what Instagram already offers in 'Stories' feature. The users can generate posts using text on solid colour backgrounds, use music or sound, use stickers and location. Also, the ready-to-post content can be reposted as a video as well. Watch: TikTok's attempts to reassure government × Due to TikTok’s massive popularity in the US (150 million users), the new feature is expected to disrupt the microblogging space. Its launch comes after Meta launched its Threads app and US billionaire Elon Musk rebranded his Twitter brand to X, thus further creating ripples on the internet. Why TikTok is wading into the microblogging space It started after Musk took over Twitter before rebranding it as X, and started implementing changes that ended up confusing and even irritating its users. The users have specifically expressed their frustration with the paid-only features and ‘view limits’ applied to unverified profiles. Other major threats looming over X are diminishing valuation, major outages and plummeting revenues. However, none of them has led to a drop in X’s popularity among its users. Also read: Turkey: 700,000 TikTok accounts were hacked ahead of presidential elections, says report Subsequently, a couple of competitors garnered interest, such as Mastodon and the more recent Bluesky. Meta’s Threads: A flop show? Meta's Threads, which was launched earlier this month, was perceived as the first significant contender to pose a real threat to Twitter. Threads boasts integration with Instagram and achieved unprecedented growth, attracting over 100 million users within a mere five days. However, its initial success was short-lived, witnessing a substantial 70 per cent decline in daily active users since reaching its peak on July 7. This setback has dampened its explosive launch, potentially paving the way for new competitors like TikTok to step in, introducing text features and presenting a formidable challenge to X (Twitter). WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

After Meta’s fledgling attempt, TikTok takes on X by offering text-only posts

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<p>As many as 700,000 TikTok accounts in Turkey had been compromised by a hack, weeks before Turkey's authoritarian President Recep Tayyip Erdogan managed to gain a slender lead in May re-election, a report in Forbes has claimed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report said that TikTok was informed about the potential vulnerability a year in advance, but did nothing to fix the issue.&nbsp;The ByteDance-owned company used 'greyrouting' of SMS through insecure channels which allowed non-state actors to allegedly gain access to TikTok accounts.</p>

<p>In simple terms, greyrouting means using unsecured channels to send SMS text messages. It is done so to bypass fees established by international telecommunications agreements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In April 2022, UK’s National Cyber Security Centre, a division of the intelligence agency GCHQ, wrote an email to TikTok's security chief Roland Cloutier and warned that 'greyrouting' may allow 'SIM farms' in Russia and other countries to request and intercept one-time passwords to gain access to TikTok users’ accounts.</p>

<p>According to internal emails, documents, chat logs and other sources,&nbsp;Cloutier’s team initially acted on the tip and found out that TikTok was indeed using greyrouting to keep costs down, the Forbes report claimed. However, the company decided against applying a fix as it would have cost millions of dollars each month, it said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Erdogan government may have benefitted</strong></h2>

<p>Although it is not clear who exploited the vulnerability, the Forbes report insinuated that the Erdogan administration may have used the situation to its benefit.</p>

<p>"Under Erdogan, the Turkish government has a history of using state-sponsored troll networks to hack and intimidate journalists and other critics."</p>

<p>Experts cautioned that without proper information, it was hard to know how significant the breach was, at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This could range from a super advanced spam attack to a state actor. If you’d just told me 700,000 accounts, I’d tell you that’s a Wednesday," said Alex Stamos, former&nbsp;security chief for Facebook.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Erdogan reelected as Turkish president&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/rise-and-rise-of-turkish-president-recep-tayyip-erdogan-name-etched-in-gold-but-challenge-not-over-597903#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<p>In response, TikTok released a statement saying it took steps to arrest the slide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“TikTok became aware of unusual activity in April that affected the number of likes and accounts being followed on some user accounts. We immediately took steps to reverse and terminate this activity, notified affected users, and helped them secure their accounts<i>," </i>said<i>&nbsp;</i>spokesperson Alex Haurek, adding that TikTok was not 'hacked'.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/rise-and-rise-of-turkish-president-recep-tayyip-erdogan-name-etched-in-gold-but-challenge-not-over-597903"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Rise and rise of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan: Name etched in gold, but challenges not over</strong></a></p>

<p>In the lead-up to the elections, most poll pundits had not given Erdogan any chance to eke out a victory.</p>

<p>However, the 69-year-old emerged as the ultimate political survivor, defeating his secular opposition rival, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, by four percentage points.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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As many as 700,000 TikTok accounts in Turkey had been compromised by a hack, weeks before Turkey's authoritarian President Recep Tayyip Erdogan managed to gain a slender lead in May re-election, a report in Forbes has claimed.

As many as 700,000 TikTok accounts in Turkey had been compromised by a hack, weeks before Turkey's authoritarian President Recep Tayyip Erdogan managed to gain a slender lead in May re-election, a report in Forbes has claimed. The report said that TikTok was informed about the potential vulnerability a year in advance, but did nothing to fix the issue. The ByteDance-owned company used 'greyrouting' of SMS through insecure channels which allowed non-state actors to allegedly gain access to TikTok accounts. In simple terms, greyrouting means using unsecured channels to send SMS text messages. It is done so to bypass fees established by international telecommunications agreements. In April 2022, UK’s National Cyber Security Centre, a division of the intelligence agency GCHQ, wrote an email to TikTok's security chief Roland Cloutier and warned that 'greyrouting' may allow 'SIM farms' in Russia and other countries to request and intercept one-time passwords to gain access to TikTok users’ accounts. According to internal emails, documents, chat logs and other sources, Cloutier’s team initially acted on the tip and found out that TikTok was indeed using greyrouting to keep costs down, the Forbes report claimed. However, the company decided against applying a fix as it would have cost millions of dollars each month, it said. Erdogan government may have benefitted Although it is not clear who exploited the vulnerability, the Forbes report insinuated that the Erdogan administration may have used the situation to its benefit. "Under Erdogan, the Turkish government has a history of using state-sponsored troll networks to hack and intimidate journalists and other critics." Experts cautioned that without proper information, it was hard to know how significant the breach was, at the time. “This could range from a super advanced spam attack to a state actor. If you’d just told me 700,000 accounts, I’d tell you that’s a Wednesday," said Alex Stamos, former security chief for Facebook. Watch | Erdogan reelected as Turkish president × In response, TikTok released a statement saying it took steps to arrest the slide. “TikTok became aware of unusual activity in April that affected the number of likes and accounts being followed on some user accounts. We immediately took steps to reverse and terminate this activity, notified affected users, and helped them secure their accounts," said spokesperson Alex Haurek, adding that TikTok was not 'hacked'. Also read | Rise and rise of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan: Name etched in gold, but challenges not over In the lead-up to the elections, most poll pundits had not given Erdogan any chance to eke out a victory. However, the 69-year-old emerged as the ultimate political survivor, defeating his secular opposition rival, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, by four percentage points. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Turkey: 700,000 TikTok accounts were hacked ahead of presidential elections, says report

<p>A plastic surgeon based in Ohio, US, lost her medical license on Wednesday (July 12) when she was found live-streaming operations on the social media platform TikTok and&nbsp;patients subsequently reported&nbsp;surgical complications.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The surgeon identified as Katharine Grawe was voted by the Ohio Medical Board to be banned from ever practising again in the state. She is also known as 'Dr Roxy' in her plastic surgery practice "Roxy Plastic Surgery".&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the board, she didn't take into consideration of her patients as she live-streamed parts of their procedures. She even interacted with her followers by speaking into a camera and answering questions online. Her licence was originally suspended in November.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sea-otter-stuns-californian-surfers-by-attacking-them-and-stealing-boards-615128">Sea otter stuns Californian surfers by attacking them and stealing boards</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>A previous board suspension notice revealed Grawe was warned about her actions in early 2018 when concerns were raised over patient privacy and possible ethics violations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local reports have mentioned that the notice listed three patients of Grawe's who suffered severe complications and needed intense medical care after she operated on them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-junior-doctors-begin-longest-single-walkout-in-nhss-history-over-pay-issues-615098">UK junior doctors begin 'longest single walkout' in NHS’s history over pay issues</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">plastic surgeon who livestreamed procedures on TikTok has been banned from practicing medicine.<br />
The Ohio Medical Board on Wednesday voted to permanently revoke the license of Dr. Katharine Grawe —Dr. Roxy in her plastic surgery practice, "Roxy Plastic Surgery <a href="https://t.co/1UkKmd1nHT">pic.twitter.com/1UkKmd1nHT</a></p>
— Black AF News (@blackafnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/blackafnews/status/1679261690393686016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Associated Press mentioned in its report that one woman's intestine was found to be perforated a week after her surgery, which was partially live-streamed on TikTok by Grawe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by The New York Times, Dr Jonathan B Feibel, who is the vice president of the medical board, recommended that Dr Grawe's licence be revoked because of the "life-altering, reckless treatment" provided to those patients.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "These outcomes were not normal complications like those that exist in the routine practice of medicine, but were rather caused by recklessness and disregard for the rules governing the practice of medicine in Ohio."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dr Feibel added that Grawe's social media presence "amplified her reckless behaviour".&nbsp;</p>

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A plastic surgeon based in Ohio, US, lost her medical license on Wednesday (July 12) when she was found live-streaming operations on the social media platform TikTok and patients subsequently reported surgical complications.

A plastic surgeon based in Ohio, US, lost her medical license on Wednesday (July 12) when she was found live-streaming operations on the social media platform TikTok and patients subsequently reported surgical complications. The surgeon identified as Katharine Grawe was voted by the Ohio Medical Board to be banned from ever practising again in the state. She is also known as 'Dr Roxy' in her plastic surgery practice "Roxy Plastic Surgery". According to the board, she didn't take into consideration of her patients as she live-streamed parts of their procedures. She even interacted with her followers by speaking into a camera and answering questions online. Her licence was originally suspended in November. Also read: Sea otter stuns Californian surfers by attacking them and stealing boards A previous board suspension notice revealed Grawe was warned about her actions in early 2018 when concerns were raised over patient privacy and possible ethics violations. Local reports have mentioned that the notice listed three patients of Grawe's who suffered severe complications and needed intense medical care after she operated on them. Also read: UK junior doctors begin 'longest single walkout' in NHS’s history over pay issues plastic surgeon who livestreamed procedures on TikTok has been banned from practicing medicine. The Ohio Medical Board on Wednesday voted to permanently revoke the license of Dr. Katharine Grawe —Dr. Roxy in her plastic surgery practice, "Roxy Plastic Surgery pic.twitter.com/1UkKmd1nHT — Black AF News (@blackafnews) July 12, 2023 × The Associated Press mentioned in its report that one woman's intestine was found to be perforated a week after her surgery, which was partially live-streamed on TikTok by Grawe. As quoted by The New York Times, Dr Jonathan B Feibel, who is the vice president of the medical board, recommended that Dr Grawe's licence be revoked because of the "life-altering, reckless treatment" provided to those patients. He said, "These outcomes were not normal complications like those that exist in the routine practice of medicine, but were rather caused by recklessness and disregard for the rules governing the practice of medicine in Ohio." Dr Feibel added that Grawe's social media presence "amplified her reckless behaviour". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: Plastic surgeon, who live-streamed procedures on TikTok, banned from practising medicine

Indian Monsoon rains continue to wreak havoc in Northern India, breaking rainfall records. Delhi experienced unprecedented rainfall, surpassing a 41-year-old record. Evacuation orders were issued for residential colonies, including the Diplomatic Enclave in Chanakyapuri.

Monsoon wreaks havoc in India | TikTok's 'boat jumping' trend turns fatal

<p>A new social media challenge, called ‘A boat jumping challenge’, has been luring many people into its clout and also leading to the fatal deaths of some. As per the 'boat jumping challenge’, people are supposed to jump from the rear of the shipping vessels as the boat keeps on moving at a high speed. Such a risky jump has proved to be fatal for many.</p>

<h2><strong>'Drownings could have been easily avoided'</strong></h2>

<p>So far this new social media challenge has led to four deaths, leaving other people with instant broken necks in Alabama. The police officials in Alabama have stated that they had to deal with around four drownings which could have been 'easily avoided'.<br />
<br />
TikTok popularised the entire idea behind this trendy challenge which encourages people to take part in dangerous water activities.<br />
<br />
In a recent interview, Captain Jim Dennis said that these drownings could have been easily avoided.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-mps-call-on-government-to-ban-video-sharing-platform-tiktok-612882">France riots: MPs call on government to ban video-sharing platform TikTok</a></p>

<p>“Last six months we have had four drownings that were easily avoidable. They were doing a TikTok challenge. It's where you get in a boat going at a high rate of speed, you jump off the side of the boat, don't dive, you're jumping off feet first and you just kinda lean into the water,” he said.<br />
<br />
“The four that we responded to when they jumped out of the boat, they literally broke their neck and, you know, basically an instant death,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>'People do stupid things when being filmed'</strong></h2>

<p>The captain further stated, "I think people, if they're being filmed on camera, I think they're more likely to do something stupid because they want to show off in front of their friends for social media.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Just the latest, saddest reason why I don't like TikTok (and most social media)-TikTok boat jumping challenge that sees people jump off vessels moving at high speed is blamed for FOUR deaths in Alabama - as cop says victims broke their necks instantly. <a href="https://t.co/9CtrZgYCqE">pic.twitter.com/9CtrZgYCqE</a></p>
— Ron Milner (@RonMilnerBoodle) <a href="https://twitter.com/RonMilnerBoodle/status/1677869087618224129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>In one of the cases of the TikTok challenge, there was a father who was the victim, while his three children, wife, and other family members were present on the boat and recording the entire incident when he lost his life to the fad.<br />
<br />
In the TikTok footage of the challenge, people are seen throwing themselves into the water from the rear of fast-moving boats. In one video which has been recorded on Lake Norman, North Carolina, five people are seen jumping and back flipping into the water.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;55% people rely on TikTok and Snapchat for news, report finds</strong></p>

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<p><br />
After the news of deaths in Alabama surfaced, the comment section of the footage was inundated with warnings of the deaths. “That's so dangerous, not cool,” commented one person.<br />
<br />
“So dangerous! Four people have broken their necks and died from this,” another person posted.&nbsp;</p>

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A new social media challenge, called ‘A boat jumping challenge’, has been luring many people into its clout and also leading to the fatal deaths of some. As per the 'boat jumping challenge’, people are supposed to jump from the rear of the shipping vessels as the boat keeps on moving at a high speed.

A new social media challenge, called ‘A boat jumping challenge’, has been luring many people into its clout and also leading to the fatal deaths of some. As per the 'boat jumping challenge’, people are supposed to jump from the rear of the shipping vessels as the boat keeps on moving at a high speed. Such a risky jump has proved to be fatal for many. 'Drownings could have been easily avoided' So far this new social media challenge has led to four deaths, leaving other people with instant broken necks in Alabama. The police officials in Alabama have stated that they had to deal with around four drownings which could have been 'easily avoided'. TikTok popularised the entire idea behind this trendy challenge which encourages people to take part in dangerous water activities. In a recent interview, Captain Jim Dennis said that these drownings could have been easily avoided. ALSO READ | France riots: MPs call on government to ban video-sharing platform TikTok “Last six months we have had four drownings that were easily avoidable. They were doing a TikTok challenge. It's where you get in a boat going at a high rate of speed, you jump off the side of the boat, don't dive, you're jumping off feet first and you just kinda lean into the water,” he said. “The four that we responded to when they jumped out of the boat, they literally broke their neck and, you know, basically an instant death,” he added. 'People do stupid things when being filmed' The captain further stated, "I think people, if they're being filmed on camera, I think they're more likely to do something stupid because they want to show off in front of their friends for social media.” Just the latest, saddest reason why I don't like TikTok (and most social media)-TikTok boat jumping challenge that sees people jump off vessels moving at high speed is blamed for FOUR deaths in Alabama - as cop says victims broke their necks instantly. pic.twitter.com/9CtrZgYCqE — Ron Milner (@RonMilnerBoodle) July 9, 2023 × In one of the cases of the TikTok challenge, there was a father who was the victim, while his three children, wife, and other family members were present on the boat and recording the entire incident when he lost his life to the fad. In the TikTok footage of the challenge, people are seen throwing themselves into the water from the rear of fast-moving boats. In one video which has been recorded on Lake Norman, North Carolina, five people are seen jumping and back flipping into the water. WATCH | 55% people rely on TikTok and Snapchat for news, report finds After the news of deaths in Alabama surfaced, the comment section of the footage was inundated with warnings of the deaths. “That's so dangerous, not cool,” commented one person. “So dangerous! Four people have broken their necks and died from this,” another person posted. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

TikTok's ‘boat jumping’ trend turns fatal, kills four people in Alabama

<p>French MPs called on the government, on Thursday, to ban the video-sharing platform TikTok till it clarifies its links to China. This move came after the government condemned the social media platform for igniting and fuelling riots in the country.</p>

<p>A Senate commission of inquiry set to investigate TikTok's handling of data and "influence strategy" said in its final report that the video-sharing platform should be given time until January 1 next year to either come clean or face a ban in France and possibly Europe.</p>

<p>The commission, which held four months of hearings and quizzed TikTok executives about its ownership structure, also said the platform had to enhance content moderation and introduce "effective" age limits or face being suspended.</p>

<p>"We strongly disagree with the conclusions of this report, which does not accurately reflect the facts," a TikTok spokesperson said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Macron and his ministers have picked out platforms, including TikTok, for circulating images of the nights of violence that took place after a police officer shot dead 17-year-old, Nahel M in a Paris suburb on June 27.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-donations-for-french-policeman-who-shot-dead-teenager-halted-612816">France: Donations for policeman who shot dead teenager in Paris suburb halted</a></p>

<p>The senators have supported the idea of blocking content during moments of crisis and suggested TikTok should be forced to ramp up moderation in the event of future outbreaks of violence.</p>

<p>The social media application, TikTok, is widely used by millions of users across the world. It was set up by a Chinese company ByteDance but is registered in the Cayman Islands.</p>

<p>The social media giant claims that there has been a total separation from the Chinese entities.</p>

<p>The platform has already been banned in the state of Montana in the United States and faces intense scrutiny in many locations.</p>

<p>The senators urged the government to expand an existing ban on public servants using TikTok to cover anyone in a "vitally important" role in a public or private organisation.</p>

<p>Andre Gattolin, vice-chairman of the committee, said he "absolutely doubted" the viability of TikTok's business model.</p>

<p>He said it appeared TikTok "is not an economic enterprise but a political enterprise with the aim of capturing personal data".</p>

<p>The TikTok spokesperson said the firm had cooperated throughout, adding: "It is disappointing that the Commission would spend so much time and resources only to return to the same misperceptions."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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French MPs called on the government, on Thursday, to ban the video-sharing platform TikTok till it clarifies its links to China. This move came after the government condemned the social media platform for igniting and fuelling riots in the country.

French MPs called on the government, on Thursday, to ban the video-sharing platform TikTok till it clarifies its links to China. This move came after the government condemned the social media platform for igniting and fuelling riots in the country. A Senate commission of inquiry set to investigate TikTok's handling of data and "influence strategy" said in its final report that the video-sharing platform should be given time until January 1 next year to either come clean or face a ban in France and possibly Europe. The commission, which held four months of hearings and quizzed TikTok executives about its ownership structure, also said the platform had to enhance content moderation and introduce "effective" age limits or face being suspended. "We strongly disagree with the conclusions of this report, which does not accurately reflect the facts," a TikTok spokesperson said. Macron and his ministers have picked out platforms, including TikTok, for circulating images of the nights of violence that took place after a police officer shot dead 17-year-old, Nahel M in a Paris suburb on June 27. Also read: France: Donations for policeman who shot dead teenager in Paris suburb halted The senators have supported the idea of blocking content during moments of crisis and suggested TikTok should be forced to ramp up moderation in the event of future outbreaks of violence. The social media application, TikTok, is widely used by millions of users across the world. It was set up by a Chinese company ByteDance but is registered in the Cayman Islands. The social media giant claims that there has been a total separation from the Chinese entities. The platform has already been banned in the state of Montana in the United States and faces intense scrutiny in many locations. The senators urged the government to expand an existing ban on public servants using TikTok to cover anyone in a "vitally important" role in a public or private organisation. Andre Gattolin, vice-chairman of the committee, said he "absolutely doubted" the viability of TikTok's business model. He said it appeared TikTok "is not an economic enterprise but a political enterprise with the aim of capturing personal data". The TikTok spokesperson said the firm had cooperated throughout, adding: "It is disappointing that the Commission would spend so much time and resources only to return to the same misperceptions." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

France riots: MPs call on government to ban video-sharing platform TikTok

<p>A North Carolina man named Phil Stringer experienced the upgrade of a lifetime when he found himself as the sole passenger on a flight after an 18-hour delay.</p>

<p>Originally scheduled for a 6:20 a.m. departure from Oklahoma City to Charlotte, North Carolina, Stringer was the only traveller to show up at the gate when boarding finally began past midnight, reported the New York Post.</p>

<h2><strong>Stringer captures the unique experience on TikTok</strong></h2>

<p>Stringer, feeling apologetic for making the American Airlines crew show up just for him, soon discovered that the flight attendants had a sense of humour.</p>

<p>They turned the situation into a "private party" in the sky, which Stringer captured on TikTok and shared with the world.</p>

<p>The video gained over 15.4 million views, showcasing the flight attendants laughing and cheering as they performed the required announcements and demonstrations for their audience of one.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/TODAYshow?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TODAYshow</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hodakotb?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hodakotb</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/craigmelvin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@craigmelvin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SavannahGuthrie?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SavannahGuthrie</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DylanDreyerNBC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DylanDreyerNBC</a><br />
<br />
This is an amazing story about a friend of mine, Phil Stringer! The story is on his fb page. <a href="https://t.co/9ug1PQRzhA">pic.twitter.com/9ug1PQRzhA</a></p>
— . (@Mr_Char1955) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mr_Char1955/status/1673895804229091332?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The flight attendants even included personalised messages for Stringer during their loudspeaker announcements, creating a lighthearted and entertaining atmosphere.</p>

<p>Stringer, initially surprised by the lack of other passengers at the gate, had tried unsuccessfully to change his flight multiple times during the 18-hour wait.</p>

<p>As the COO of a real estate brokerage, he needed to get home. He expressed his apologies to the crew, who jokingly teased him about not leaving a few hours later.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/costly-mistake-cleaner-turns-of-freezer-accidentally-destroys-decades-of-research-in-new-york-college-609452">'Costly mistake': Cleaner turns off freezer, accidentally destroys decades of research in New York college</a></p>

<h2><strong>Turning a bad day into a fun adventure</strong></h2>

<p>Once the flight took off, Stringer's fortunes turned around. Enjoying the perks of a private flight, he had his pick of first-class seats and received top-notch food and drink service.</p>

<p><img alt="pic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7bf61044-66bd-4cdd-9af6-6456e3a1414b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20battle%20for%20Kyiv%20%2822%29_0.png" /></p>

<p><em><strong>Phil Stringer poses with the cabin crew. Photo: Twitter</strong></em></p>

<p>Throughout the journey, Stringer and the crew engaged in lively conversations, jokes, and laughter, transforming the delay into a memorable experience.</p>

<p>The flight concluded with a group selfie featuring the crew and their VIP passenger. Stringer even exchanged contact information with the airline staff, solidifying the connections made during the extraordinary flight. Many flight attendants expressed in the comments of Stringer's viral video that serving a single passenger is a dream scenario.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India: 350 passengers stranded in Jaipur as Air India pilot refuses to fly after emergency landing</strong></p>

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<p>Stringer's positive attitude played a key role in shaping his destination. While the 18-hour airport wait was less than ideal, he recognised the potential for fun and turned the experience into a memorable adventure.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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A North Carolina man named Phil Stringer experienced the upgrade of a lifetime when he found himself as the sole passenger on a flight after an 18-hour delay. Originally scheduled for a 6:20 a.

A North Carolina man named Phil Stringer experienced the upgrade of a lifetime when he found himself as the sole passenger on a flight after an 18-hour delay. Originally scheduled for a 6:20 a.m. departure from Oklahoma City to Charlotte, North Carolina, Stringer was the only traveller to show up at the gate when boarding finally began past midnight, reported the New York Post. Stringer captures the unique experience on TikTok Stringer, feeling apologetic for making the American Airlines crew show up just for him, soon discovered that the flight attendants had a sense of humour. They turned the situation into a "private party" in the sky, which Stringer captured on TikTok and shared with the world. The video gained over 15.4 million views, showcasing the flight attendants laughing and cheering as they performed the required announcements and demonstrations for their audience of one. @TODAYshow @hodakotb @craigmelvin @SavannahGuthrie @DylanDreyerNBC This is an amazing story about a friend of mine, Phil Stringer! The story is on his fb page. pic.twitter.com/9ug1PQRzhA — . (@Mr_Char1955) June 28, 2023 × The flight attendants even included personalised messages for Stringer during their loudspeaker announcements, creating a lighthearted and entertaining atmosphere. Stringer, initially surprised by the lack of other passengers at the gate, had tried unsuccessfully to change his flight multiple times during the 18-hour wait. As the COO of a real estate brokerage, he needed to get home. He expressed his apologies to the crew, who jokingly teased him about not leaving a few hours later. Also read | 'Costly mistake': Cleaner turns off freezer, accidentally destroys decades of research in New York college Turning a bad day into a fun adventure Once the flight took off, Stringer's fortunes turned around. Enjoying the perks of a private flight, he had his pick of first-class seats and received top-notch food and drink service. Phil Stringer poses with the cabin crew. Photo: Twitter Throughout the journey, Stringer and the crew engaged in lively conversations, jokes, and laughter, transforming the delay into a memorable experience. The flight concluded with a group selfie featuring the crew and their VIP passenger. Stringer even exchanged contact information with the airline staff, solidifying the connections made during the extraordinary flight. Many flight attendants expressed in the comments of Stringer's viral video that serving a single passenger is a dream scenario. Also watch | India: 350 passengers stranded in Jaipur as Air India pilot refuses to fly after emergency landing Stringer's positive attitude played a key role in shaping his destination. While the 18-hour airport wait was less than ideal, he recognised the potential for fun and turned the experience into a memorable adventure. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Private party' in the sky: US man enjoys entire plane to himself after 18-hour flight delay

<p>A bipartisan group of US lawmakers on Wednesday (June 14) introduced legislation to safeguard Americans' data from being used by adversaries of the United States. The group consists of six senators and two members of the House of Representatives. This legislation represents the latest push from US lawmakers to address concerns about Americans' data being used by foreign-owned tech platforms like TikTok.</p>

<p>Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden, a Democrat, said the bill "would turn off the tap of data to unfriendly nations, stop TikTok from sending Americans’ personal information to China, and allow nations with strong privacy protections to strengthen their relationships."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | 55% people rely on TikTok and Snapchat for news, report finds</strong></p>

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<p>TikTok is used by more than 150 Americans. Many US lawmakers have voiced concerns that Chinese-owned TikTok poses a serious security risk as far as American users' data is concerned. The lawmakers have also sounded the alarm over China's influence over the app.</p>

<p>TikTok has denied all such allegations from US political circles. It says that there is no improper data use involved and the company has spent $1.5 billion on data security measures.</p>

<h2><strong>The legislation</strong></h2>

<p>The latest bill moved by the lawmakers will direct the Commerce Department to identify categories of personal data that could harm US national security. It also directs it to create a&nbsp;list of high-risk countries where sensitive data exports would be blocked.</p>

<p>The bill will also seek to regulate exports of personal data by data brokers and firms like TikTok directly to restricted foreign governments. The legislation will apply export control penalties to senior executives who knew or should have known that employees were directed to illegally export Americans’ personal data.</p>

<p>In the month of March, a US House Committee voted to give US President Joe Biden the power to ban the Chinese video-sharing app&nbsp;TikTok. That legislation, however, has not moved forward.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/serbian-dancing-lady-real-or-fake-know-the-truth-behind-the-mysterious-creepy-viral-tiktok-video-604003">Serbian Dancing Lady: Real or Fake? Know the truth behind the mysterious &amp; creepy viral TikTok video</a></strong></p>

<p>Last month, TikTok sued to block a planned ban by Montana, the first US&nbsp;state to bar the popular short-video sharing service.</p>

<p>Warner said the likelihood of courts overturning Montana's ban made it essential for Congress to pass legislation to give the president new powers to ban or impose restrictions on TikTok and other foreign-owned apps.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</em></p>

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A bipartisan group of US lawmakers on Wednesday (June 14) introduced legislation to safeguard Americans' data from being used by adversaries of the United States.

A bipartisan group of US lawmakers on Wednesday (June 14) introduced legislation to safeguard Americans' data from being used by adversaries of the United States. The group consists of six senators and two members of the House of Representatives. This legislation represents the latest push from US lawmakers to address concerns about Americans' data being used by foreign-owned tech platforms like TikTok. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden, a Democrat, said the bill "would turn off the tap of data to unfriendly nations, stop TikTok from sending Americans’ personal information to China, and allow nations with strong privacy protections to strengthen their relationships." Watch | 55% people rely on TikTok and Snapchat for news, report finds × TikTok is used by more than 150 Americans. Many US lawmakers have voiced concerns that Chinese-owned TikTok poses a serious security risk as far as American users' data is concerned. The lawmakers have also sounded the alarm over China's influence over the app. TikTok has denied all such allegations from US political circles. It says that there is no improper data use involved and the company has spent $1.5 billion on data security measures. The legislation The latest bill moved by the lawmakers will direct the Commerce Department to identify categories of personal data that could harm US national security. It also directs it to create a list of high-risk countries where sensitive data exports would be blocked. The bill will also seek to regulate exports of personal data by data brokers and firms like TikTok directly to restricted foreign governments. The legislation will apply export control penalties to senior executives who knew or should have known that employees were directed to illegally export Americans’ personal data. In the month of March, a US House Committee voted to give US President Joe Biden the power to ban the Chinese video-sharing app TikTok. That legislation, however, has not moved forward. Also Read | Serbian Dancing Lady: Real or Fake? Know the truth behind the mysterious & creepy viral TikTok video Last month, TikTok sued to block a planned ban by Montana, the first US state to bar the popular short-video sharing service. Warner said the likelihood of courts overturning Montana's ban made it essential for Congress to pass legislation to give the president new powers to ban or impose restrictions on TikTok and other foreign-owned apps. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US: Lawmakers want new law to guard TikTok user data

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