We live in the age of instant gratification and Gen-Z is the mascot for it. Hungry? Here's an app that delivers food in minutes; bored? here's an inexhaustible database of TV series and movies; need some external validation, upload nice pictures on social media and likes will follow. But what about if you need medical advice? Apparently, it's TikTok and Youtube to the rescue.

As per a survey of about 2,000 US adults from earlier this month, one-third of GenZers "consult" TikTok for health advice while another 44 per cent turn to YouTube, the qualified doctors are the third option...if that.

The survey was conducted by CharityRx, a discount pharmacy service, and with it, the company attempted to " explore how the spread of health information, treatment options and health authorities is impacting consumer behaviour when it comes to managing personal wellbeing".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/pet-dog-accidentally-flown-to-saudi-arabia-instead-of-nashville-flown-back-to-owner-after-three-flights-545038">Pet dog accidentally flown to Saudi Arabia instead of Nashville, flown back to owner after three flights</a>

It found that nearly one in five individuals trust "health influencers" more than medical professionals. They consult these "experts" on a variety of health concerns but concerns like anxiety, depression and weight loss top the list.

About 34 per cent seek advice from influencers for anxiety, while 33 per cent dos o for depression and another 34 "consult" their videos for weight loss.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/possible-ufo-sighting-in-wisconsin-residents-share-videos-of-strange-lights-545065">Possible UFO sighting in Wisconsin? Residents share videos of strange lights</a>

One in Five Americans turn to TikTok before going to a qualified doctor and one in two Americans have purchased a health product off of social media or because of ads on it.

However, is this a good idea? Not really. Not everyone on these platforms is a legitimate source and before following any remedies do consult a qualified professional.

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We live in the age of instant gratification and Gen-Z is the mascot for it. Hungry? Here's an app that delivers food in minutes; bored? here's an inexhaustible database of TV series and movies; need some external validation, upload nice pictures on social media and likes will follow.

We live in the age of instant gratification and Gen-Z is the mascot for it. Hungry? Here's an app that delivers food in minutes; bored? here's an inexhaustible database of TV series and movies; need some external validation, upload nice pictures on social media and likes will follow. But what about if you need medical advice? Apparently, it's TikTok and Youtube to the rescue. As per a survey of about 2,000 US adults from earlier this month, one-third of GenZers "consult" TikTok for health advice while another 44 per cent turn to YouTube, the qualified doctors are the third option...if that. The survey was conducted by CharityRx, a discount pharmacy service, and with it, the company attempted to " explore how the spread of health information, treatment options and health authorities is impacting consumer behaviour when it comes to managing personal wellbeing". Also read | Pet dog accidentally flown to Saudi Arabia instead of Nashville, flown back to owner after three flights It found that nearly one in five individuals trust "health influencers" more than medical professionals. They consult these "experts" on a variety of health concerns but concerns like anxiety, depression and weight loss top the list. About 34 per cent seek advice from influencers for anxiety, while 33 per cent dos o for depression and another 34 "consult" their videos for weight loss. Also read | Possible UFO sighting in Wisconsin? Residents share videos of strange lights One in Five Americans turn to TikTok before going to a qualified doctor and one in two Americans have purchased a health product off of social media or because of ads on it. However, is this a good idea? Not really. Not everyone on these platforms is a legitimate source and before following any remedies do consult a qualified professional. 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.

For the GenZ-populated 'instant age', TikTok and influencers are the new doctors

State agencies in Louisiana and West Virginia on Monday became the latest to ban the use of the popular social media service TikTok on government-managed devices over concern that China could use it to track Americans and censor content.

TikTok says 'disappointed over the ban' in US

'Enola Holmes 2' may have received a great response on the OTT platform Netflix upon its release, but the film's leading lady and co-producer Millie Bobby Brown is facing criticism offline for her behind-the-scenes antics. 
 
Brown, the star of 'Stranger Things', &nbsp;featured in Netflix's original film 'Enola Holmes' in 2020 where she played Sherlock Holmes's sister and a young amateur detective herself. The success of the first film led to Netflix headlining the second part which too was a hit.&nbsp; 
 
Henry Cavill played her older brother, Sherlock, while Louis Partridge played Enola's love interest, Lord Tewkesbury.&nbsp;

The kissing controversy 
 
Brown has been facing criticism for her on-set behaviour with Partridge. In an interview with Netflix, shared on the platform's TikTok account, Brown recalled a moment in the film where Enola kisses Tewkesbury very passionately. Turns out, the moment was unscripted, and Brown had planted the kiss without Partridge's knowledge, who was suitably surprised by the move. In the interview, Brown called her co-actor's&nbsp;reaction "so cute." 
 
In response to the interview, professional intimacy coordinator Jessica Steinrock filmed a TikTok criticising Brown's sudden kiss, saying that while Brown and Partridge likely have a good rapport, Brown still kissed him without his consent.&nbsp; 
 
In the same interview, Brown also recalled a scene where Enola is trying to teach Tewkesbury self-defense, which she does by punching him several times. While the punches were scripted and meant to be fake, Brown said she didn't need to pull her punches because of her bonding with Partridge in real life.&nbsp; 
 
"I wasn't doing stunts, I really was hurting him, and by the end of it, he said 'Millie, can you just fake punch me?' I was fully just getting him right in the stomach," the actress said. Brown again called this scene "very cute". 
 
In her response, Steinrock pointed out some obvious problems in Brown's stories, including that there is a power imbalance between Brown and Partridge.&nbsp; 
 
Steinrock also says that it's little things like surprise kisses that can escalate over time. Users on TikTok seemed to be divided over the interview and Steinrock's video. While some termed the intimacy coordinator's video as an overreaction, others agreed that if a surprise kiss were to happen like this in any other profession, it certainly wouldn't be so readily accepted. 
Some also did not like how Brown termed both the kiss and punching incident with fondness.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

'Enola Holmes 2' may have received a great response on the OTT platform Netflix upon its release, but the film's leading lady and co-producer Millie Bobby Brown is facing criticism offline for her behind-the-scenes antics.

'Enola Holmes 2' may have received a great response on the OTT platform Netflix upon its release, but the film's leading lady and co-producer Millie Bobby Brown is facing criticism offline for her behind-the-scenes antics. Brown, the star of 'Stranger Things', featured in Netflix's original film 'Enola Holmes' in 2020 where she played Sherlock Holmes's sister and a young amateur detective herself. The success of the first film led to Netflix headlining the second part which too was a hit. Henry Cavill played her older brother, Sherlock, while Louis Partridge played Enola's love interest, Lord Tewkesbury. The kissing controversy Brown has been facing criticism for her on-set behaviour with Partridge. In an interview with Netflix, shared on the platform's TikTok account, Brown recalled a moment in the film where Enola kisses Tewkesbury very passionately. Turns out, the moment was unscripted, and Brown had planted the kiss without Partridge's knowledge, who was suitably surprised by the move. In the interview, Brown called her co-actor's reaction "so cute." In response to the interview, professional intimacy coordinator Jessica Steinrock filmed a TikTok criticising Brown's sudden kiss, saying that while Brown and Partridge likely have a good rapport, Brown still kissed him without his consent. In the same interview, Brown also recalled a scene where Enola is trying to teach Tewkesbury self-defense, which she does by punching him several times. While the punches were scripted and meant to be fake, Brown said she didn't need to pull her punches because of her bonding with Partridge in real life. "I wasn't doing stunts, I really was hurting him, and by the end of it, he said 'Millie, can you just fake punch me?' I was fully just getting him right in the stomach," the actress said. Brown again called this scene "very cute". In her response, Steinrock pointed out some obvious problems in Brown's stories, including that there is a power imbalance between Brown and Partridge. Steinrock also says that it's little things like surprise kisses that can escalate over time. Users on TikTok seemed to be divided over the interview and Steinrock's video. While some termed the intimacy coordinator's video as an overreaction, others agreed that if a surprise kiss were to happen like this in any other profession, it certainly wouldn't be so readily accepted. Some also did not like how Brown termed both the kiss and punching incident with fondness.

Millie Bobby Brown kissing 'Enola Holmes 2' co-star without consent has social media divided 

World Business Watch: TikTok bans hit more US states; ban on govt-managed devices

TikTok has recently been scrutinised in Taiwan since the government banned its departments from using the Chinese-owned social media platform. Meanwhile, Taiwanese government also&nbsp;opened an investigation into TikTok parent company ByteDance for suspected illegal commercial operations on the island following a media report.&nbsp;

In a statement, Taiwan’s China-policy-making Mainland Affairs Council said that on December 9, they first came across suspicions of ByteDance operating a subsidiary to tout for business on the island, following a report by Taiwan's Liberty Times newspaper.&nbsp;

Responding to the media report, the council’s working group said there indeed was an alleged breach of the law referring to what the media report had called the company’s “illegal commercial operations” which the legal authorities are now investigating.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-mulls-banning-tiktok-alleges-latter-of-eroding-publics-confidence-in-govt-541880">Taiwan mulls banning TikTok, accuses it of eroding public's confidence in government</a>

The newspaper claims that ByteDance has set up a subsidiary look to expand its business on the island which is a breach of Taiwanese law passed three years ago which does not allow Chinese social media platforms to open commercial operations on the island.&nbsp;

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Furthermore, Taiwan also prohibits a wide range of Beijing's business operations including its social media platforms to its highly sought after chip manufacturing industry. In 2019, the Taiwanese government passed an anti-infiltration law in a bid to combat what they see as China's&nbsp;efforts to influence the island’s politics and democratic processes through funding politicians, media, and so on.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-senators-call-tiktok-a-massive-surveillance-tool-is-tiktok-spying-on-you-for-china-535961">US: Senators call TikTok a 'massive surveillance tool; Is TikTok spying on you for China?</a>

This also comes days after the island also banned Chinese apps including TikTok from government departments. They have also accused Beijing of using such apps “to carry out cognitive operations and infiltration against other countries” while highlighting the risk of the Chinese government collecting users’ personal information.&nbsp;

Additionally, Taiwan has also accused China of using social media to spread disinformation on the island which Beijing claims as its territory. While the short video platform still trails behind Meta’s Facebook and Instagram in terms of usage on the island it is becoming increasingly popular among the Taiwanese youth, said a report by Reuters citing market research companies.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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TikTok has recently been scrutinised in Taiwan since the government banned its departments from using the Chinese-owned social media platform. Meanwhile, Taiwanese government also opened an investigation into TikTok parent company ByteDance for suspected illegal commercial operations on the island following a media report.

TikTok has recently been scrutinised in Taiwan since the government banned its departments from using the Chinese-owned social media platform. Meanwhile, Taiwanese government also opened an investigation into TikTok parent company ByteDance for suspected illegal commercial operations on the island following a media report. In a statement, Taiwan’s China-policy-making Mainland Affairs Council said that on December 9, they first came across suspicions of ByteDance operating a subsidiary to tout for business on the island, following a report by Taiwan's Liberty Times newspaper. Responding to the media report, the council’s working group said there indeed was an alleged breach of the law referring to what the media report had called the company’s “illegal commercial operations” which the legal authorities are now investigating. ALSO READ | Taiwan mulls banning TikTok, accuses it of eroding public's confidence in government The newspaper claims that ByteDance has set up a subsidiary look to expand its business on the island which is a breach of Taiwanese law passed three years ago which does not allow Chinese social media platforms to open commercial operations on the island. × Furthermore, Taiwan also prohibits a wide range of Beijing's business operations including its social media platforms to its highly sought after chip manufacturing industry. In 2019, the Taiwanese government passed an anti-infiltration law in a bid to combat what they see as China's efforts to influence the island’s politics and democratic processes through funding politicians, media, and so on. ALSO WATCH | US: Senators call TikTok a 'massive surveillance tool; Is TikTok spying on you for China? This also comes days after the island also banned Chinese apps including TikTok from government departments. They have also accused Beijing of using such apps “to carry out cognitive operations and infiltration against other countries” while highlighting the risk of the Chinese government collecting users’ personal information. Additionally, Taiwan has also accused China of using social media to spread disinformation on the island which Beijing claims as its territory. While the short video platform still trails behind Meta’s Facebook and Instagram in terms of usage on the island it is becoming increasingly popular among the Taiwanese youth, said a report by Reuters citing market research companies. (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.

Taiwan opens probe into TikTok over suspected ‘illegal commercial operations’

TikTok is not getting away from scrutiny. After officials in the United States mull a possible ban on the Chinese-owned social media app, the Taiwanese government has now launched a probe into the app as well.

Taiwan launches probe into TikTok for spreading disinformation

The day after the US senate passed a legislation aiming to ban TikTok from government devices. The CIA Director William Burns has spoken out as well as he calls it a genuine concern and says the Chinese regime could very well demand data from the Beijing-based company.

US vs TikTok: CIA Director speaks out on TikTok, William Burns calls concerns 'very real'

Social media company TikTok said on Friday (December 16) that it will cut its Russian staff. The company has stopped key services for Russian users this year.

TikTok has already suspended livestreaming and new uploads in Russia after it introduced strict new censorship rules after it invaded Ukraine in February this year. &nbsp;

"We have had to make a number of decisions this year about our service in Russia, which now unfortunately includes reducing our Russia-based workforce," the company said in a statement.

"We will continue to evaluate the evolving circumstances in Russia to determine when we might fully resume our services with safety as our top priority," it said.

Earlier this week, TikTok drew ire of US lawmakers as US Senate passed a bill to bar federal employees from using the Chinese-owned app on government-owned devices.

The vote is the latest action on the part of US lawmakers to crackdown on Chinese companies amid national security fears that Beijing could use them to spy on Americans.

The Senate action comes after North Dakota and Iowa this week joined a growing number of U.S. states in banning TikTok, owned by ByteDance, from state-owned devices amid concerns that data could be passed on to the Chinese government.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Social media company TikTok said on Friday (December 16) that it will cut its Russian staff. The company has stopped key services for Russian users this year. TikTok has already suspended livestreaming and new uploads in Russia after it introduced strict new censorship rules after it invaded Ukraine in February this year.

Social media company TikTok said on Friday (December 16) that it will cut its Russian staff. The company has stopped key services for Russian users this year. TikTok has already suspended livestreaming and new uploads in Russia after it introduced strict new censorship rules after it invaded Ukraine in February this year. "We have had to make a number of decisions this year about our service in Russia, which now unfortunately includes reducing our Russia-based workforce," the company said in a statement. "We will continue to evaluate the evolving circumstances in Russia to determine when we might fully resume our services with safety as our top priority," it said. Earlier this week, TikTok drew ire of US lawmakers as US Senate passed a bill to bar federal employees from using the Chinese-owned app on government-owned devices. The vote is the latest action on the part of US lawmakers to crackdown on Chinese companies amid national security fears that Beijing could use them to spy on Americans. The Senate action comes after North Dakota and Iowa this week joined a growing number of U.S. states in banning TikTok, owned by ByteDance, from state-owned devices amid concerns that data could be passed on to the Chinese government. (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 ×

TikTok to cut staff in Russia, says the social media company in statement

As the US prepares to impose a limited ban on Bytedance-owned short video-sharing platform TikTok on the grounds of national security, the Beijing-headquartered company slammed the Biden administration for the "troubling" bipartisan legislation. The company said that the US Congress' push for a ban on Tiktok is "politically motivated".&nbsp;

This week, the Senate unanimously passed a bill that would ban the Chinese-owned video-sharing app on government devices, after major security concerns were raised by both Democrat and Republican lawmakers and Biden administration officials. Nancy Pelosi, House Speaker, announced on Friday that she supports the inclusion of language, "banning TikTok", on the government devices in the omnibus spending bill. The bill is expected to pass by the end of next week.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-mass-exodus-in-china-elite-flee-to-safe-havens-543514">Gravitas: U.S. moves to ban TikTok</a>

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"It is troubling that rather than encouraging the administration to conclude its national security review of TikTok, some members of Congress have decided to push for politically motivated bans that will do nothing to advance the national security of the United States," a TikTok spokesperson said Friday.

"TikTok is loved by millions of Americans who use the platform to learn, grow their businesses and connect with creative content that brings them joy," the spokesperson said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tiktok-boosts-harmful-contents-on-suicide-eating-disorder-within-minutes-finds-study-543640">TikTok boosts harmful content on suicide, eating disorder within minutes of someone joining it: Study</a>

TikTok said the company will "continue to brief members of Congress on the plans that have been developed under the oversight of our country’s top national security agencies — plans that we are well underway in implementing — to further secure our platform in the United States."

The bill, which is officially known as the "Averting the National Threat of Internet Surveillance, Oppressive Censorship and Influence, and Algorithmic Learning by the Chinese Communist Party Act" or the "ANTI-SOCIAL CCP Act", is designed to prohibit all transactions by social media companies controlled or influenced by "countries of concern".&nbsp;

The legislation specifically names TikTok and owner ByteDance as existing national security threats. If passed, its provisions would also extend to any social media platform controlled by other US foreign adversaries, including Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, and Venezuela.

TikTok ban on government devices: Why is there bipartisan support?

In 2017, China introduced the National Intelligence Law which required all social media and internet companies, to hand over all user data that they get every year.&nbsp;

TikTok and ByteDance are under investigation by the Treasury Department's Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States. The committee investigates national security risks associated with foreign-owned companies operating in the U.S. or foreign investments in American companies.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-mulls-banning-tiktok-alleges-latter-of-eroding-publics-confidence-in-govt-541880">Taiwan mulls banning TikTok, accuses it of eroding public's confidence in government</a>

The legislation comes amid the investigation and multiple warnings from Biden administration officials about reported "national security threats" posed by the app.

FBI Director Christopher Wray earlier this month warned that Chinese officials have broad access to TikTok, allowing them "to manipulate content, and if they want to, to use it for influence operations."

"All of these things are in the hands of a government that doesn’t share our values, and that has a mission that's very much at odds with what’s in the best interests of the United States. That should concern us," Wray said.

Wray has said he is "extremely concerned" about the threats posed by the app, explaining that the Chinese government can use it to "control data collection on millions of users," and then have the "opportunity to potentially technically compromise personal devices" of Americans.

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As the US prepares to impose a limited ban on Bytedance-owned short video-sharing platform TikTok on the grounds of national security, the Beijing-headquartered company slammed the Biden administration for the "troubling" bipartisan legislation.

As the US prepares to impose a limited ban on Bytedance-owned short video-sharing platform TikTok on the grounds of national security, the Beijing-headquartered company slammed the Biden administration for the "troubling" bipartisan legislation. The company said that the US Congress' push for a ban on Tiktok is "politically motivated". This week, the Senate unanimously passed a bill that would ban the Chinese-owned video-sharing app on government devices, after major security concerns were raised by both Democrat and Republican lawmakers and Biden administration officials. Nancy Pelosi, House Speaker, announced on Friday that she supports the inclusion of language, "banning TikTok", on the government devices in the omnibus spending bill. The bill is expected to pass by the end of next week. WATCH | Gravitas: U.S. moves to ban TikTok × "It is troubling that rather than encouraging the administration to conclude its national security review of TikTok, some members of Congress have decided to push for politically motivated bans that will do nothing to advance the national security of the United States," a TikTok spokesperson said Friday. "TikTok is loved by millions of Americans who use the platform to learn, grow their businesses and connect with creative content that brings them joy," the spokesperson said. ALSO READ | TikTok boosts harmful content on suicide, eating disorder within minutes of someone joining it: Study TikTok said the company will "continue to brief members of Congress on the plans that have been developed under the oversight of our country’s top national security agencies — plans that we are well underway in implementing — to further secure our platform in the United States." The bill, which is officially known as the "Averting the National Threat of Internet Surveillance, Oppressive Censorship and Influence, and Algorithmic Learning by the Chinese Communist Party Act" or the "ANTI-SOCIAL CCP Act", is designed to prohibit all transactions by social media companies controlled or influenced by "countries of concern". The legislation specifically names TikTok and owner ByteDance as existing national security threats. If passed, its provisions would also extend to any social media platform controlled by other US foreign adversaries, including Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, and Venezuela. TikTok ban on government devices: Why is there bipartisan support? In 2017, China introduced the National Intelligence Law which required all social media and internet companies, to hand over all user data that they get every year. TikTok and ByteDance are under investigation by the Treasury Department's Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States. The committee investigates national security risks associated with foreign-owned companies operating in the U.S. or foreign investments in American companies. ALSO READ | Taiwan mulls banning TikTok, accuses it of eroding public's confidence in government The legislation comes amid the investigation and multiple warnings from Biden administration officials about reported "national security threats" posed by the app. FBI Director Christopher Wray earlier this month warned that Chinese officials have broad access to TikTok, allowing them "to manipulate content, and if they want to, to use it for influence operations." "All of these things are in the hands of a government that doesn’t share our values, and that has a mission that's very much at odds with what’s in the best interests of the United States. That should concern us," Wray said. Wray has said he is "extremely concerned" about the threats posed by the app, explaining that the Chinese government can use it to "control data collection on millions of users," and then have the "opportunity to potentially technically compromise personal devices" of Americans. 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 slams Biden admin for 'troubling' bipartisan law, says push for ban politically motivated

The Central Intelligence Agency's (CIA's) director William Burns on Friday warned that United States citizens should be "really careful''&nbsp;on TikTok as many federal agencies including the White House banned the Chinese-owned video-sharing platform from government devices. &nbsp;

In an interview with PBS, Burns said that he shared concerns expressed by other US officials that TikTok could pose a danger to the country's national security.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-slams-biden-administration-for-troubling-app-ban-law-543876">TikTok slams Biden administration for "troubling" app ban law</a>

"I think it's a genuine concern, I think, for the US government in the sense that because the parent company of TikTok is a Chinese company, the Chinese government is able to… insist upon extracting the private data of a lot of TikTok users in this country and also to shape the content of what goes on to TikTok as well to suit the interests of the Chinese leadership,” Burns said.&nbsp;

On being asked whether it was a good idea that some American lawmakers wanted to ban TikTok, Burns said, “Well, you know, in my role, see, this is where blessedly as an intelligence, in an intelligence role, I mean, I'm not going to offer judgments on those kind of policy or legislative decisions."

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;US vs TikTok: CIA Director speaks out on TikTok, William Burns calls concerns 'very real'

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However, the CIA director told PBS on Friday it was genuinely troubling to see what the Chinese government could do to manipulate TikTok.&nbsp;

US lawmakers have been cracking down on Chinese companies amid national security fears.

In the latest measure late Wednesday, the US Senate passed a bill to bar federal employees from using TikTok on government-owned devices, after security concerns were raised by Biden administration officials and both Democrats and Republicans.&nbsp;

The Senate's action comes after Iowa and North Dakota joined the list of American states in banning the Chinese video-sharing platform, a report by news agency Reuters said on Thursday.&nbsp;

The bill, however, will not affect American citizens who use TikTok on private or company-owned devices. Meanwhile, the White House has declined to comment on whether President Joe Biden would support the TikTok legislation. &nbsp; 
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The Central Intelligence Agency's (CIA's) director William Burns on Friday warned that United States citizens should be "really careful'' on TikTok as many federal agencies including the White House banned the Chinese-owned video-sharing platform from government devices.

The Central Intelligence Agency's (CIA's) director William Burns on Friday warned that United States citizens should be "really careful'' on TikTok as many federal agencies including the White House banned the Chinese-owned video-sharing platform from government devices. In an interview with PBS, Burns said that he shared concerns expressed by other US officials that TikTok could pose a danger to the country's national security. ALSO READ | TikTok slams Biden administration for "troubling" app ban law "I think it's a genuine concern, I think, for the US government in the sense that because the parent company of TikTok is a Chinese company, the Chinese government is able to… insist upon extracting the private data of a lot of TikTok users in this country and also to shape the content of what goes on to TikTok as well to suit the interests of the Chinese leadership,” Burns said. On being asked whether it was a good idea that some American lawmakers wanted to ban TikTok, Burns said, “Well, you know, in my role, see, this is where blessedly as an intelligence, in an intelligence role, I mean, I'm not going to offer judgments on those kind of policy or legislative decisions." ALSO WATCH | US vs TikTok: CIA Director speaks out on TikTok, William Burns calls concerns 'very real' × However, the CIA director told PBS on Friday it was genuinely troubling to see what the Chinese government could do to manipulate TikTok. US lawmakers have been cracking down on Chinese companies amid national security fears. In the latest measure late Wednesday, the US Senate passed a bill to bar federal employees from using TikTok on government-owned devices, after security concerns were raised by Biden administration officials and both Democrats and Republicans. The Senate's action comes after Iowa and North Dakota joined the list of American states in banning the Chinese video-sharing platform, a report by news agency Reuters said on Thursday. The bill, however, will not affect American citizens who use TikTok on private or company-owned devices. Meanwhile, the White House has declined to comment on whether President Joe Biden would support the TikTok legislation. 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.

CIA director warns Americans of TikTok, says they should be 'really careful'

The U.S. has passed a bill to ban TikTok on U.S. government-owned devices. The vote is America's latest action to crack down on Chinese companies amid national security fears. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: U.S. moves to ban TikTok

Researchers have found that TikTok’s algorithms are promoting videos about suicide and eating disorders to vulnerable teens within minutes after creating an account, as concerns over the impact of social media on mental health rise.

The report, published by the non-profit Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH) on Wednesday, in its findings claimed that a new TikTok user was exposed to harmful content in less than three minutes after creating an account. While it takes about five more minutes to find content on eating disorders.

These tests were done across the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia by creating eight accounts, where the minimum user age is 13.

These accounts liked content about body image and mental health, following which the app recommended videos about losing weight and self-harm, including ones featuring pictures of models and idealised body types, images of razor blades and discussions of suicide.

When the researchers created accounts with user names that suggested a particular vulnerability to eating disorders that included the words “lose weight” the accounts were fed even more harmful content.

“The results are every parent’s nightmare: young people’s feeds are bombarded with harmful, harrowing content that can have a significant cumulative impact on their understanding of the world around them, and their physical and mental health,” Imran Ahmed, CEO of the CCDH, said in the report.

“It’s like being stuck in a hall of distorted mirrors where you’re constantly being told you’re ugly, you’re not good enough, maybe you should kill yourself,” Ahmed added.

The report was strongly criticised by TikTok, whose spokesperson termed it an inaccurate depiction of the viewing experience on the platform.

“This activity and resulting experience does not reflect genuine behaviour or viewing experiences of real people,” the TikTok spokesperson told CNN.

“We regularly consult with health experts, remove violations of our policies, and provide access to supportive resources for anyone in need. We’re mindful that triggering content is unique to each individual and remain focused on fostering a safe and comfortable space for everyone, including people who choose to share their recovery journeys or educate others on these important topics.”

&nbsp;(With inputs from agencies)

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Researchers have found that TikTok’s algorithms are promoting videos about suicide and eating disorders to vulnerable teens within minutes after creating an account, as concerns over the impact of social media on mental health rise.

Researchers have found that TikTok’s algorithms are promoting videos about suicide and eating disorders to vulnerable teens within minutes after creating an account, as concerns over the impact of social media on mental health rise. The report, published by the non-profit Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH) on Wednesday, in its findings claimed that a new TikTok user was exposed to harmful content in less than three minutes after creating an account. While it takes about five more minutes to find content on eating disorders. These tests were done across the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia by creating eight accounts, where the minimum user age is 13. These accounts liked content about body image and mental health, following which the app recommended videos about losing weight and self-harm, including ones featuring pictures of models and idealised body types, images of razor blades and discussions of suicide. When the researchers created accounts with user names that suggested a particular vulnerability to eating disorders that included the words “lose weight” the accounts were fed even more harmful content. “The results are every parent’s nightmare: young people’s feeds are bombarded with harmful, harrowing content that can have a significant cumulative impact on their understanding of the world around them, and their physical and mental health,” Imran Ahmed, CEO of the CCDH, said in the report. “It’s like being stuck in a hall of distorted mirrors where you’re constantly being told you’re ugly, you’re not good enough, maybe you should kill yourself,” Ahmed added. The report was strongly criticised by TikTok, whose spokesperson termed it an inaccurate depiction of the viewing experience on the platform. “This activity and resulting experience does not reflect genuine behaviour or viewing experiences of real people,” the TikTok spokesperson told CNN. “We regularly consult with health experts, remove violations of our policies, and provide access to supportive resources for anyone in need. We’re mindful that triggering content is unique to each individual and remain focused on fostering a safe and comfortable space for everyone, including people who choose to share their recovery journeys or educate others on these important topics.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

TikTok boosts harmful content on suicide, eating disorder within minutes of someone joining it: Study

TikTok is testing a new horizontal full-screen mode with selected users globally in what is being seen as a direct competition to YouTube. Users who will be able to access this feature will see a ''full screen'' button appearing on videos in their feed, a report by TechCrunch on Wednesday said. Upon clicking the button, the video will now change to a horizontal full screen.

It is not yet known when will this mode be available to all users or whether the company plans to even release it. If the feature is officially released, it may look different than the test product, the TechCrunch report said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;T<a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/tiktok-boosts-harmful-contents-on-suicide-eating-disorder-within-minutes-finds-study-543640">ikTok boosts harmful contents on suicide, eating disorder within minutes, finds study</a>

Often TikTok creators will add a ''turn your phone'' message at the beginning of their videos so that viewers can enjoy the experience if the videos are recorded horizontally.

However with the horizontal full-screen mode, creators will no longer have to share the message, the report added.&nbsp;

Some people may welcome the new screen mode while others may not as TikTok has been known for popularising the vertical video format.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-third-of-users-regularly-get-their-news-from-tiktok-claims-new-study-528120">&nbsp;One-third of users regularly get their news from TikTok, claims new study</a>

TikTok's prominence in the online space continues to grow but the company has come under scrutiny from many countries including the United States.

On December 8, the video platform was sued by the US state of Indiana over child safety and security fears. According to the lawsuit, TikTok's algorithms served up "abundant content depicting alcohol, tobacco, and drugs; sexual content, nudity, and suggestive themes" to users who were as young as 13, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

In a statement, Indiana's attorney general Todd Rokita said that the Tiktok app was a malicious and menacing threat unleased on the state's consumers &nbsp;"by a Chinese company that knows full well the harms it inflicts on users.''&nbsp; 
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TikTok is testing a new horizontal full-screen mode with selected users globally in what is being seen as a direct competition to YouTube. Users who will be able to access this feature will see a ''full screen'' button appearing on videos in their feed, a report by TechCrunch on Wednesday said.

TikTok is testing a new horizontal full-screen mode with selected users globally in what is being seen as a direct competition to YouTube. Users who will be able to access this feature will see a ''full screen'' button appearing on videos in their feed, a report by TechCrunch on Wednesday said. Upon clicking the button, the video will now change to a horizontal full screen. It is not yet known when will this mode be available to all users or whether the company plans to even release it. If the feature is officially released, it may look different than the test product, the TechCrunch report said. ALSO READ | TikTok boosts harmful contents on suicide, eating disorder within minutes, finds study Often TikTok creators will add a ''turn your phone'' message at the beginning of their videos so that viewers can enjoy the experience if the videos are recorded horizontally. However with the horizontal full-screen mode, creators will no longer have to share the message, the report added. Some people may welcome the new screen mode while others may not as TikTok has been known for popularising the vertical video format. ALSO READ | One-third of users regularly get their news from TikTok, claims new study TikTok's prominence in the online space continues to grow but the company has come under scrutiny from many countries including the United States. On December 8, the video platform was sued by the US state of Indiana over child safety and security fears. According to the lawsuit, TikTok's algorithms served up "abundant content depicting alcohol, tobacco, and drugs; sexual content, nudity, and suggestive themes" to users who were as young as 13, news agency AFP reported. In a statement, Indiana's attorney general Todd Rokita said that the Tiktok app was a malicious and menacing threat unleased on the state's consumers "by a Chinese company that knows full well the harms it inflicts on users.'' 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 testing new horizontal full-screen mode: Report

A new dating theory is going viral on TikTok. This one involves gifting shoes to a partner on Christmas. Neha Khanna brings you the details.

WION Fineprint | New "Shoe Theory" trend viral on TikTok

WION Fineprint | New "Shoe Theory" viral on TikTok

U.S. lawmakers have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at banning the social media platform TikTok. Will the U.S. succeed this time?

U.S: Senate passes legislation on banning TikTok for lawmakers

China is tightening its grip on social media even further. New guidelines came into effect on Thursday. Now, the Chinese government will also monitor "likes" on social media. Neha Khanna brings you the details.

WION Fineprint | China tightens grip on social media

US lawmakers are coming down hard on TikTok. Republican Senator Marco Rubio announced bipartisan legislation to ban the Chinese video sharing app on Tuesday. US has been concerned that China could use the app owned by ByteDance to spy on Americans and censor content.

The legislation aims to block all transactions from any social media company in or under the influence of China and Russia, as per a news release from Rubio's office. The statement further added that a companion bill in the US House of Representatives was sponsored by Republican congressman Mike Gallagher and Democrat Raja Krishnamoorthi.

Responding to the development, TikTok called the ban "politically motivated".

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-apps-like-tiktok-can-be-used-for-spying-says-fbi-chief-539699">Chinese apps like TikTok can be used for espionage, says FBI chief Christopher Wray</a>

"It is troubling that rather than encouraging the administration to conclude its national security review of TikTok, some members of Congress have decided to push for a politically-motivated ban that will do nothing to advance the national security of the United States," a TikTok spokesperson said in a statement.

The company also said that it would continue to brief members of Congress regarding plans to make the platform secure in the United States.

TikTok has been under the scanner in Washington for a long time now. Several states have prohibited the use of the app on state devices. FBI Director Chris Wray had said at a hearing last month that TikTok's US operations raise national security concerns, saying that there is a risk that the Chinese government could harness it to influence users or control their devices.

Following in the footsteps of Texas, Maryland and South Dakota, Alabama and Utah also stopped the use of TikTok on state government devices and computer networks due to national security concerns.

"Disturbingly, TikTok harvests vast amounts of data, much of which has no legitimate connection to the app's supposed purpose of video sharing. Use of TikTok involving state IT infrastructure thus creates an unacceptable vulnerability to Chinese infiltration operations," Alabama Governor Kay Ivey said in a statement.

Indiana has sued the app on concerns that it is deceiving users about China's access to their data and is exposing children to mature content.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-use-of-tiktok-banned-on-all-state-government-devices-and-networks-in-maryland-540840">After Maryland, Texas bans use of TikTok on govt devices, Indiana sues platform for deceiving users</a>

"We're disappointed that so many states are jumping on the bandwagon to enact policies based on unfounded, politically charged falsehoods about TikTok," a TikTok spokesperson said in a statement.

In 2020, the then-president Donald Trump had tried to block new users from downloading TikTok and ban other transactions, effectively blocking the apps' use in the United States. However, he lost a series of court battles over the measure.

Later in 2021, President Joe Biden withdrew Trump's executive orders and directed the Commerce Department to conduct a review of security concerns posed by the apps.

(With inputs from agencies)

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US lawmakers are coming down hard on TikTok. Republican Senator Marco Rubio announced bipartisan legislation to ban the Chinese video sharing app on Tuesday. US has been concerned that China could use the app owned by ByteDance to spy on Americans and censor content.

US lawmakers are coming down hard on TikTok. Republican Senator Marco Rubio announced bipartisan legislation to ban the Chinese video sharing app on Tuesday. US has been concerned that China could use the app owned by ByteDance to spy on Americans and censor content. The legislation aims to block all transactions from any social media company in or under the influence of China and Russia, as per a news release from Rubio's office. The statement further added that a companion bill in the US House of Representatives was sponsored by Republican congressman Mike Gallagher and Democrat Raja Krishnamoorthi. Responding to the development, TikTok called the ban "politically motivated". Also Read | Chinese apps like TikTok can be used for espionage, says FBI chief Christopher Wray "It is troubling that rather than encouraging the administration to conclude its national security review of TikTok, some members of Congress have decided to push for a politically-motivated ban that will do nothing to advance the national security of the United States," a TikTok spokesperson said in a statement. The company also said that it would continue to brief members of Congress regarding plans to make the platform secure in the United States. TikTok has been under the scanner in Washington for a long time now. Several states have prohibited the use of the app on state devices. FBI Director Chris Wray had said at a hearing last month that TikTok's US operations raise national security concerns, saying that there is a risk that the Chinese government could harness it to influence users or control their devices. Following in the footsteps of Texas, Maryland and South Dakota, Alabama and Utah also stopped the use of TikTok on state government devices and computer networks due to national security concerns. "Disturbingly, TikTok harvests vast amounts of data, much of which has no legitimate connection to the app's supposed purpose of video sharing. Use of TikTok involving state IT infrastructure thus creates an unacceptable vulnerability to Chinese infiltration operations," Alabama Governor Kay Ivey said in a statement. Indiana has sued the app on concerns that it is deceiving users about China's access to their data and is exposing children to mature content. Also Read | After Maryland, Texas bans use of TikTok on govt devices, Indiana sues platform for deceiving users "We're disappointed that so many states are jumping on the bandwagon to enact policies based on unfounded, politically charged falsehoods about TikTok," a TikTok spokesperson said in a statement. In 2020, the then-president Donald Trump had tried to block new users from downloading TikTok and ban other transactions, effectively blocking the apps' use in the United States. However, he lost a series of court battles over the measure. Later in 2021, President Joe Biden withdrew Trump's executive orders and directed the Commerce Department to conduct a review of security concerns posed by the apps. (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.

US lawmakers unveil bipartisan legislation to block TikTok; Alabama, Utah ban app on state devices

Republican Senator Marco Rubio on Tuesday announced bipartisan legislation to ban China's popular social media app TikTok. The bill comes as scrutiny of TikTok has grown in Washington in recent weeks, after a failed bid by the Trump administration to ban the video-sharing app.

US lawmakers launch fresh bid to ban TikTok

Gov. Doug Burgum of North Dakota has joined a number of Republican governors in banning the popular social media app TikTok from devices used by the executive branch of the state government. They did so due to the platform's Chinese ownership and growing national security concerns. Late on Tuesday, Burgum issued the executive order. It forbids accessing the TikTok website as well as downloading the app on devices that belong to the government or while connected to the state's network.

“TikTok raises multiple flags in terms of the amount of data it collects and how that data may be shared with and used by the Chinese government,” Burgum said in a statement.

The platform, which is controlled by the Chinese corporation ByteDance, is allegedly posing cybersecurity dangers, according to the most recent state to make such claims, North Dakota.

TikTok and some other platforms with Chinese or Russian roots have been outlawed in the state's executive branch of government, according to Republican governor of Maryland Larry Hogan. Furthermore, South Dakota's Republican governor Kristi Noem previously forbade state workers and contractors from using TikTok on state-owned smartphones, citing the app's connections to China.

Governor Henry McMaster, a Republican from South Carolina, requested last week that TikTok be removed from all state-owned devices from the Department of Administration, which oversees that department. Additionally, in August 2020, Republican governor of Nebraska Pete Ricketts stopped TikTok on government computers.

Republican members of Wisconsin's congressional delegation urged Democratic Governor Tony Evers last week to remove the video network TikTok from all state-owned devices, citing it as a national security risk. Additionally, the programme is not allowed on military smartphones according to the US armed forces.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Gov. Doug Burgum of North Dakota has joined a number of Republican governors in banning the popular social media app TikTok from devices used by the executive branch of the state government.

Gov. Doug Burgum of North Dakota has joined a number of Republican governors in banning the popular social media app TikTok from devices used by the executive branch of the state government. They did so due to the platform's Chinese ownership and growing national security concerns. Late on Tuesday, Burgum issued the executive order. It forbids accessing the TikTok website as well as downloading the app on devices that belong to the government or while connected to the state's network. “TikTok raises multiple flags in terms of the amount of data it collects and how that data may be shared with and used by the Chinese government,” Burgum said in a statement. The platform, which is controlled by the Chinese corporation ByteDance, is allegedly posing cybersecurity dangers, according to the most recent state to make such claims, North Dakota. TikTok and some other platforms with Chinese or Russian roots have been outlawed in the state's executive branch of government, according to Republican governor of Maryland Larry Hogan. Furthermore, South Dakota's Republican governor Kristi Noem previously forbade state workers and contractors from using TikTok on state-owned smartphones, citing the app's connections to China. Governor Henry McMaster, a Republican from South Carolina, requested last week that TikTok be removed from all state-owned devices from the Department of Administration, which oversees that department. Additionally, in August 2020, Republican governor of Nebraska Pete Ricketts stopped TikTok on government computers. Republican members of Wisconsin's congressional delegation urged Democratic Governor Tony Evers last week to remove the video network TikTok from all state-owned devices, citing it as a national security risk. Additionally, the programme is not allowed on military smartphones according to the US armed forces. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: North Dakota governor bans TikTok in government's executive branch

WION Fineprint | U.S. is trying to ban tiktok again

Taiwan has been thinking about banning TikTok, as the government authorities believe that the social media site is being used by China to wipe out the confidence of the country's citizens in the government.&nbsp;

The Chinese-invested social media platform has been already banned from devices of the public sector by Taiwan over security concerns and the fear of a “cognitive warfare” campaign, the South China Morning Post reported.&nbsp;

However, the authorities have been hesitant to ban TikTok on personal devices and in the private sector, considering the implication it may have on freedom of speech and information.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-may-complaint-with-wto-over-chinese-import-bans-541841">Taiwan may file complaint with WTO against China for import ban on several items</a>

The National Security Bureau of Taiwan alleged that TikTok is being increasingly used by Beijing to influence the public on the island and break their confidence and faith in the government.

In May, Bureau director Chen Ming-tong stated that Taiwanese are being trained and paid by Beijing to influence the young audience present on social media platforms like TikTok, Xiaohongshu (Instagram's Chinese version) and YouTube, as part of China's “cognitive warfare” against Taiwan.

The Investigation Bureau of the Ministry of Justice said that they are investigating the reports which claim that videos alleging corruption within Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen's government and ridiculing the defences of the country have been circulated on TikTok.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-launches-raids-after-alleged-vote-buying-with-chinese-funds-537513">Taiwan conducts raids in crackdown on alleged vote-buying with Chinese funds</a>

Taking into account the warnings, the lawmakers were prompted to call for countermeasures to tackle the influence campaigns.

In a legislature meeting, the ruling Democratic Progressive Party's legislator Ho Chih-wei said, “The app has been used by China in cognitive warfare to spread disinformation and create social division in Taiwan.”&nbsp;

China, which considers Taiwan its territory, has stated that it will use force to bring the island under its control. Ho stated that the government must devise “plans to regulate” TikTok's use in Taiwan.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Taiwan has been thinking about banning TikTok, as the government authorities believe that the social media site is being used by China to wipe out the confidence of the country's citizens in the government.

Taiwan has been thinking about banning TikTok, as the government authorities believe that the social media site is being used by China to wipe out the confidence of the country's citizens in the government. The Chinese-invested social media platform has been already banned from devices of the public sector by Taiwan over security concerns and the fear of a “cognitive warfare” campaign, the South China Morning Post reported. However, the authorities have been hesitant to ban TikTok on personal devices and in the private sector, considering the implication it may have on freedom of speech and information. ALSO READ| Taiwan may file complaint with WTO against China for import ban on several items The National Security Bureau of Taiwan alleged that TikTok is being increasingly used by Beijing to influence the public on the island and break their confidence and faith in the government. In May, Bureau director Chen Ming-tong stated that Taiwanese are being trained and paid by Beijing to influence the young audience present on social media platforms like TikTok, Xiaohongshu (Instagram's Chinese version) and YouTube, as part of China's “cognitive warfare” against Taiwan. The Investigation Bureau of the Ministry of Justice said that they are investigating the reports which claim that videos alleging corruption within Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen's government and ridiculing the defences of the country have been circulated on TikTok. ALSO READ| Taiwan conducts raids in crackdown on alleged vote-buying with Chinese funds Taking into account the warnings, the lawmakers were prompted to call for countermeasures to tackle the influence campaigns. In a legislature meeting, the ruling Democratic Progressive Party's legislator Ho Chih-wei said, “The app has been used by China in cognitive warfare to spread disinformation and create social division in Taiwan.” China, which considers Taiwan its territory, has stated that it will use force to bring the island under its control. Ho stated that the government must devise “plans to regulate” TikTok's use in Taiwan. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan mulls banning TikTok, accuses it of eroding public's confidence in government

A Seattle-based landlord was found guilty of murdering two tenants in a case that was widely known as the 'TikTok suitcase murders' in social media conversations. The bodies were found washed ashore in suitcases on Alki Beach in Seattle in 2020.

Michael Dudley, 64, murdered Jessica Lewis and her boyfriend Austin Wenne, a jury pronounced. He reportedly shot and mutilated the victims, following which he disposed of their remains in suitcases.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blackout-challenge-tiktok-sued-after-mother-alleges-daughter-died-attempting-dangerous-game-478886">'Blackout challenge': TikTok sued after mother alleges daughter died attempting dangerous game</a>

The crime garnered widespread attention from the public and media alike because of the way the bodies were reportedly discovered. A video of the finding was also posted on TikTok that spread like wildfire throughout the US and beyond.&nbsp;

The video was viewed more than 30 million times. TikTok even clarified that the video did not violate its terms of service.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_nF9WVgQPw">WION Fineprint: Twitter decides to 'copy' TikTok</a>

Prosecutors had no eyewitnesses or science that directly linked Dudley to the crime but had a mountain of evidence.&nbsp;

The court in Seattle heard a testimony from a neighbour who had heard gunshots and a man pleading for his life.

Police initially went to the home, but nobody answered. Dudley was later arrested.

Court documents indicate Lewis and Wenner got into a dispute over unpaid rent with Dudley, in whose home they were living.

Dudley will be sentenced in March and faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.

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A Seattle-based landlord was found guilty of murdering two tenants in a case that was widely known as the 'TikTok suitcase murders' in social media conversations.

A Seattle-based landlord was found guilty of murdering two tenants in a case that was widely known as the 'TikTok suitcase murders' in social media conversations. The bodies were found washed ashore in suitcases on Alki Beach in Seattle in 2020. Michael Dudley, 64, murdered Jessica Lewis and her boyfriend Austin Wenne, a jury pronounced. He reportedly shot and mutilated the victims, following which he disposed of their remains in suitcases. ALSO READ | 'Blackout challenge': TikTok sued after mother alleges daughter died attempting dangerous game The crime garnered widespread attention from the public and media alike because of the way the bodies were reportedly discovered. A video of the finding was also posted on TikTok that spread like wildfire throughout the US and beyond. The video was viewed more than 30 million times. TikTok even clarified that the video did not violate its terms of service. WATCH | WION Fineprint: Twitter decides to 'copy' TikTok Prosecutors had no eyewitnesses or science that directly linked Dudley to the crime but had a mountain of evidence. The court in Seattle heard a testimony from a neighbour who had heard gunshots and a man pleading for his life. Police initially went to the home, but nobody answered. Dudley was later arrested. Court documents indicate Lewis and Wenner got into a dispute over unpaid rent with Dudley, in whose home they were living. Dudley will be sentenced in March and faces a maximum sentence of life in prison. 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.

Seattle: Landlord found guilty in Tiktok suitcase murder case

Texas governor&nbsp;Greg Abbott&nbsp;is the latest to order state agencies to ban TikTok on government-issued devices. The decision was delivered on Wednesday and cited security issues as reason.&nbsp;“TikTok harvests vast amounts of data from its users’ devices – including when, where and how they conduct Internet activity, and offers this trove of potentially sensitive information to the Chinese government,” the letter sent to state agency leaders said.

The same day,&nbsp;Indiana sued the Chinese-owned short-video sharing app TikTok over allegations that it is deceiving users about China's access to their data and exposing children to mature content.

A day earlier, under an emergency directive issued by Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, the use of the&nbsp;platform on state government devices and networks was prohibited. The Republicans have been coming down hard on the video platform. South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem had signed a similar executive order last week that barred state employees and contractors from installing or using TikTok on state-owned devices. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster had on Monday also asked a state agency to ban from state government phones and computers.

Hogan's ban includes several Chinese and Russian-influenced products and platforms since he believes they present an "unacceptable level of cybersecurity risk to the state".

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tiktoks-national-security-deal-delays-further-increases-worry-over-risks-540693">TikTok-US govt deal delayed further amid worry over national security risks: Report</a>

Maryland executive branch agencies have been directed to remove the products from state networks and prevent access.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, TikTok said misinformation is fuelling such concerns prompting state bans.&nbsp;

"We are disappointed that the many state agencies, offices, and universities that have been using TikTok to build communities and connect with constituents will no longer have access to our platform," the company said on Tuesday.

Hogan's directive also covers Huawei Technologies, ZTE Corp, Tencent Holdings' WeChat, QQ and QQ Wallet, Alibaba products and Russia's Kaspersky Lab.

FBI Director Chris Wray had earlier said that TikTok's US operations raised national security concerns. The risk of Chinese government harnessing the video-sharing app to influence users or control their devices is real, he said.

Beijing could also use the popular app, owned by ByteDance, to "control software on millions of devices," giving it the opportunity to "technically compromise" those devices, Wray added.

The government's Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) had ordered ByteDance in 2020 to divest TikTok because of fears that US user data could be passed on to Beijing.

CFIUS and TikTok have been trying for a long time to reach a national security agreement to protect the data of TikTok's more than 100 million US users. However, it seems unlikely that a deal would be reached before January.

Former President Donald Trump in 2020 had tried to stop new US users from downloading WeChat and TikTok, a move that didn't materialise due to a series of lost court battles.

President Joe Biden in June 2021 withdrew Trump's executive orders that sought to ban the downloads and directed the Commerce Department to conduct a review of security concerns posed by the apps.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Texas governor Greg Abbott is the latest to order state agencies to ban TikTok on government-issued devices. The decision was delivered on Wednesday and cited security issues as reason.

Texas governor Greg Abbott is the latest to order state agencies to ban TikTok on government-issued devices. The decision was delivered on Wednesday and cited security issues as reason. “TikTok harvests vast amounts of data from its users’ devices – including when, where and how they conduct Internet activity, and offers this trove of potentially sensitive information to the Chinese government,” the letter sent to state agency leaders said. The same day, Indiana sued the Chinese-owned short-video sharing app TikTok over allegations that it is deceiving users about China's access to their data and exposing children to mature content. A day earlier, under an emergency directive issued by Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, the use of the platform on state government devices and networks was prohibited. The Republicans have been coming down hard on the video platform. South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem had signed a similar executive order last week that barred state employees and contractors from installing or using TikTok on state-owned devices. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster had on Monday also asked a state agency to ban from state government phones and computers. Hogan's ban includes several Chinese and Russian-influenced products and platforms since he believes they present an "unacceptable level of cybersecurity risk to the state". Also Read | TikTok-US govt deal delayed further amid worry over national security risks: Report Maryland executive branch agencies have been directed to remove the products from state networks and prevent access. Meanwhile, TikTok said misinformation is fuelling such concerns prompting state bans. "We are disappointed that the many state agencies, offices, and universities that have been using TikTok to build communities and connect with constituents will no longer have access to our platform," the company said on Tuesday. Hogan's directive also covers Huawei Technologies, ZTE Corp, Tencent Holdings' WeChat, QQ and QQ Wallet, Alibaba products and Russia's Kaspersky Lab. FBI Director Chris Wray had earlier said that TikTok's US operations raised national security concerns. The risk of Chinese government harnessing the video-sharing app to influence users or control their devices is real, he said. Beijing could also use the popular app, owned by ByteDance, to "control software on millions of devices," giving it the opportunity to "technically compromise" those devices, Wray added. The government's Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) had ordered ByteDance in 2020 to divest TikTok because of fears that US user data could be passed on to Beijing. CFIUS and TikTok have been trying for a long time to reach a national security agreement to protect the data of TikTok's more than 100 million US users. However, it seems unlikely that a deal would be reached before January. Former President Donald Trump in 2020 had tried to stop new US users from downloading WeChat and TikTok, a move that didn't materialise due to a series of lost court battles. President Joe Biden in June 2021 withdrew Trump's executive orders that sought to ban the downloads and directed the Commerce Department to conduct a review of security concerns posed by the apps. (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.

After Maryland, Texas bans use of TikTok on govt devices, Indiana sues platform for deceiving users

A national security deal between TikTok and the Biden administration, which was expected to be sealed around the year-end, has been delayed further and increased worry over the issue of popular applications posing national security concerns, as per the US media reports citing officials.

The review has been extended amid various concerns which include how algorithm-related information will be shared by TikTok and the amount of trust Washington would need to have in the company, as reported by The Wall Street Journal.

TikTok has not been approached by US officials lately with the additional demands to address the concerns raised recently, leaving the forward path unclear.

A spokeswoman of TikTok said that they are looking forward to a “timely conclusion to our agreement with the U.S. government, much of which we have already started implementing in earnest so that we can put these concerns to rest.”

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-be-a-digital-nomad-in-spain-heres-everything-you-need-to-know-540620">Want to be a digital nomad in Spain? Here's everything you need to know</a>

She added that no unmet, remaining concerns have been raised by the government with the company. The Committee on Foreign Investment, which is a secretive panel of the government to review business deals related to security concerns, is leading the negotiations from the US side.

The talks were aimed at reducing the influence of the Chinese government on the operations in the US, without severing Chinese ties with TikTok completely. It has been agreed by both sides that Oracle Corp will be used to store the data collected by TikTok on US users.

TikTok has stated that it plans to delete private data on US users from its data centres in Singapore and Virginia as it will be storing the complete data with Oracle cloud infrastructure.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A national security deal between TikTok and the Biden administration, which was expected to be sealed around the year-end, has been delayed further and increased worry over the issue of popular applications posing national security concerns, as per the US media reports citing officials.

A national security deal between TikTok and the Biden administration, which was expected to be sealed around the year-end, has been delayed further and increased worry over the issue of popular applications posing national security concerns, as per the US media reports citing officials. The review has been extended amid various concerns which include how algorithm-related information will be shared by TikTok and the amount of trust Washington would need to have in the company, as reported by The Wall Street Journal. TikTok has not been approached by US officials lately with the additional demands to address the concerns raised recently, leaving the forward path unclear. A spokeswoman of TikTok said that they are looking forward to a “timely conclusion to our agreement with the U.S. government, much of which we have already started implementing in earnest so that we can put these concerns to rest.” ALSO READ| Want to be a digital nomad in Spain? Here's everything you need to know She added that no unmet, remaining concerns have been raised by the government with the company. The Committee on Foreign Investment, which is a secretive panel of the government to review business deals related to security concerns, is leading the negotiations from the US side. The talks were aimed at reducing the influence of the Chinese government on the operations in the US, without severing Chinese ties with TikTok completely. It has been agreed by both sides that Oracle Corp will be used to store the data collected by TikTok on US users. TikTok has stated that it plans to delete private data on US users from its data centres in Singapore and Virginia as it will be storing the complete data with Oracle cloud infrastructure. (With inputs from agencies)

TikTok-US govt deal delayed further amid worry over national security risks: Report

Federal Bureau of Investigation chief Christopher Wray has sounded a warning over Chinese apps like Tik-Tok and&nbsp;raising national security concerns, warned that the control of the popular video sharing app is in the hands of a Chinese government that doesn’t share ‘our values’. Wray&nbsp;said the Chinese government can use TikTok and other&nbsp;such apps for espionage. TikTok is a massively popular short video-sharing platform in America.&nbsp;Wray was talking at Gerald R Ford School of Public Policy when he sounded the warning bell.

Wray expressed FBI's concerns about China's ability to control the app's recommendation algorithm. He said the algorithm allows the Chinese company to manipulate content. He added that this strategy can be used for traditional espionage. 
 
"All of these things are in the hands of a government that doesn’t share our values, and that has a mission that's very much at odds with what’s in the best interests of the United States. That should concern us," he said.

Wray had echoed similar sentiments in front of US lawmakers during a congressional appearance last month. He was asked by the lawmakers about the app's ability to cllect data from Americans and its other functionalities

"China’s vast hacking programme is the world’s largest, and they have stolen more Americans’ personal and business data than every other nation combined," he had told the lawmakers.

Wray said the FBI is also concerned about Chinese government’s ‘talent programmes’ that at times pay American professors through secret relationships.&nbsp;“The Chinese government, and the Chinese Communist Party, are engaged in an international talent war to try to leverage and steal intellectual property and sensitive research and data from countries all over the world and so it’s our responsibility to protect the information.” 
 
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Federal Bureau of Investigation chief Christopher Wray has sounded a warning over Chinese apps like Tik-Tok and raising national security concerns, warned that the control of the popular video sharing app is in the hands of a Chinese government that doesn’t share ‘our values’.

Federal Bureau of Investigation chief Christopher Wray has sounded a warning over Chinese apps like Tik-Tok and raising national security concerns, warned that the control of the popular video sharing app is in the hands of a Chinese government that doesn’t share ‘our values’. Wray said the Chinese government can use TikTok and other such apps for espionage. TikTok is a massively popular short video-sharing platform in America. Wray was talking at Gerald R Ford School of Public Policy when he sounded the warning bell. Wray expressed FBI's concerns about China's ability to control the app's recommendation algorithm. He said the algorithm allows the Chinese company to manipulate content. He added that this strategy can be used for traditional espionage. "All of these things are in the hands of a government that doesn’t share our values, and that has a mission that's very much at odds with what’s in the best interests of the United States. That should concern us," he said. Wray had echoed similar sentiments in front of US lawmakers during a congressional appearance last month. He was asked by the lawmakers about the app's ability to cllect data from Americans and its other functionalities "China’s vast hacking programme is the world’s largest, and they have stolen more Americans’ personal and business data than every other nation combined," he had told the lawmakers. Wray said the FBI is also concerned about Chinese government’s ‘talent programmes’ that at times pay American professors through secret relationships. “The Chinese government, and the Chinese Communist Party, are engaged in an international talent war to try to leverage and steal intellectual property and sensitive research and data from countries all over the world and so it’s our responsibility to protect the information.” 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 ×

Chinese apps like TikTok can be used for espionage, says FBI chief Christopher Wray

The Chinese social media video giant TikTok has announced that it will be banning videos that promote tanning and sunburn as a viral challenge on its&nbsp;app. It also announced the addition of educational content instead that will make people aware of tanning and sunburn as one of the biggest skin problems around the world.

The announcement came after Australian medical experts raise concerns over the platform's sharing of pro-tanning&nbsp;content. The Australian medical experts&nbsp;of the Melanoma Institute were alarmed about the issue in September at the National Press Club, with a video-sharing app for its popular&nbsp;#sunburnchallenge hashtag.

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TikTok has answered Melanoma Institute Australia’s plea to stop glamourising tanning. The 'Tanning. That's Cooked.' campaign launches today. 
It will turn our tanning culture on its head. 
Read more&gt; <a href="https://t.co/mC0cBp6RgQ">https://t.co/mC0cBp6RgQ</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TanningThatsCooked?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TanningThatsCooked</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TikTokForGood?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TikTokForGood</a><a href="https://twitter.com/tiktokaustralia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tiktokaustralia</a> <a href="https://t.co/j83aJzNDnt">pic.twitter.com/j83aJzNDnt</a>
— Melanoma Institute (@MelanomaAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/MelanomaAus/status/1598029175658528768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The issue was raised by co-medical directors of the Melanoma Institute Prof Georgina Long and Prof Richard Scolyer, which was then also&nbsp;supported by Olympian and melanoma survivor Cate Campbell, saying that many social media influencers are glamourising tanning with hashtags like "sunburnt tanlines"&nbsp;without knowing the harmful effects of it. She urged social media platforms and influencers to change the narrative around sunburn and tanning, as none of them are&nbsp;aware of the harmful effects it has on the skin. Australia and New Zealand have the highest skin cancer incidence and mortality rates in the world.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com//entertainment/lifestyle/news-instagram-influencer-kicks-a-dog-and-calls-herself-animal-lover-in-a-viral-video-538964">Instagram 'influencer' kicks a dog and calls herself animal lover in a viral video</a>

In response to the uproar, TikTik has announced a widespread education campaign that will impose a pop-up banner for anti-tanning content and for all searches&nbsp;around tanning, summer, and sunburn. The campaign which will target people between the age group of 20 to 39, will also remove "concerning content" related to&nbsp; "dangerous" tanning activities, including the popular #sunburnchallenge hashtag, which has more than 8.4 million views worldwide.

TikTok’s general manager in Australia and New Zealand, Lee Hunter, said the platform would encourage user-generated content about sun safety and the dangers of melanoma among young people.

Melanoma is the most common form of cancer among 20-39-year-olds in Australia, it is also the nation's most deadly form of skin cancer, accounting for more than&nbsp;1000 deaths a year.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="&lt;iframe width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;315&quot; src=&quot;https://www.youtube.com/embed/uPxVpeycSjs&quot; title=&quot;YouTube video player&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; allow=&quot;accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture&quot; allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;">Global Technology Summit 2022: Expert opinion on the use of tech in war-fighting concepts | WION</a>

Hunter said, "We’ll actively promote the creator content related to the campaign, which means everyone aged between 20 and 39 will see the message. And everyone who searches for a hashtag related to summer sun, tanning, and many other summertime phrases will see the … banner and will be provided with information that outlines the dangers of tanning".&nbsp;

The platform’s first video features a young Australian influencer applying sunscreen on a beach and dismissing tanning to her alter ego as “cooked”.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Chinese social media video giant TikTok has announced that it will be banning videos that promote tanning and sunburn as a viral challenge on its app. It also announced the addition of educational content instead that will make people aware of tanning and sunburn as one of the biggest skin problems around the world.

The Chinese social media video giant TikTok has announced that it will be banning videos that promote tanning and sunburn as a viral challenge on its app. It also announced the addition of educational content instead that will make people aware of tanning and sunburn as one of the biggest skin problems around the world. The announcement came after Australian medical experts raise concerns over the platform's sharing of pro-tanning content. The Australian medical experts of the Melanoma Institute were alarmed about the issue in September at the National Press Club, with a video-sharing app for its popular #sunburnchallenge hashtag. TikTok has answered Melanoma Institute Australia’s plea to stop glamourising tanning. The 'Tanning. That's Cooked.' campaign launches today. It will turn our tanning culture on its head. Read more> https://t.co/mC0cBp6RgQ#TanningThatsCooked #TikTokForGood@tiktokaustralia pic.twitter.com/j83aJzNDnt — Melanoma Institute (@MelanomaAus) November 30, 2022 × The issue was raised by co-medical directors of the Melanoma Institute Prof Georgina Long and Prof Richard Scolyer, which was then also supported by Olympian and melanoma survivor Cate Campbell, saying that many social media influencers are glamourising tanning with hashtags like "sunburnt tanlines" without knowing the harmful effects of it. She urged social media platforms and influencers to change the narrative around sunburn and tanning, as none of them are aware of the harmful effects it has on the skin. Australia and New Zealand have the highest skin cancer incidence and mortality rates in the world. Also Read | Instagram 'influencer' kicks a dog and calls herself animal lover in a viral video In response to the uproar, TikTik has announced a widespread education campaign that will impose a pop-up banner for anti-tanning content and for all searches around tanning, summer, and sunburn. The campaign which will target people between the age group of 20 to 39, will also remove "concerning content" related to "dangerous" tanning activities, including the popular #sunburnchallenge hashtag, which has more than 8.4 million views worldwide. TikTok’s general manager in Australia and New Zealand, Lee Hunter, said the platform would encourage user-generated content about sun safety and the dangers of melanoma among young people. Melanoma is the most common form of cancer among 20-39-year-olds in Australia, it is also the nation's most deadly form of skin cancer, accounting for more than 1000 deaths a year. Watch | Global Technology Summit 2022: Expert opinion on the use of tech in war-fighting concepts | WION Hunter said, "We’ll actively promote the creator content related to the campaign, which means everyone aged between 20 and 39 will see the message. And everyone who searches for a hashtag related to summer sun, tanning, and many other summertime phrases will see the … banner and will be provided with information that outlines the dangers of tanning". The platform’s first video features a young Australian influencer applying sunscreen on a beach and dismissing tanning to her alter ego as “cooked”. (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 to ban videos that promote tanning and sunburn after medical experts raise concerns

Contradictory views towards work are everywhere, blooming and fading like TikTok trends. While sleeping in the office to meet deadlines is making a comeback, workers are vouching for the 'right to be lazy' at work in France. Neha Khanna brings you more details.

WION Fineprint: Flowering and fading work trends

Republican leader and South Dakota governor Kristi Noem on Tuesday issued an executive order banning the use of Chinese TikTok by state employees and contractors on government gadgets, citing the short video app's ties to Beijing.

Republican leader and South Dakota governor Kristi Noem on Tuesday issued an executive order banning the use of Chinese TikTok by state employees and contractors on government gadgets, citing the short video app's ties to Beijing. “South Dakota will have no part in the intelligence gathering operations of nations who hate us," said Noem in a statement posted on Twitter. "The Chinese Communist Party uses information that it gathers on TikTok to manipulate the American people, and they gather data off the devices that access the platform." Noem added that the order which goes into effect immediately "prohibits downloading or using the TikTok application or visiting the website on state-owned or state-leased electronic devices capable of internet connectivity". South Dakota is banning TikTok for state government. We will have no part in intelligence gathering for China, a nation that hates America. I hope other states quickly follow this example and protect the vital private information of our citizens. pic.twitter.com/rJ2H2k0Rlk — Governor Kristi Noem (@govkristinoem) November 29, 2022 × TikTok did not immediately respond to Noem's order or the ban imposed. Notably, the GOP leaders, in recent weeks have increased the pressure on TikTok and its owner ByteDance to come clean regarding its data-sharing policies. WATCH | US: Senators call TikTok a 'massive surveillance tool; Is TikTok spying on you for China? × Last week, Republican lawmakers Cathy McMorris Rodgers and James Comer wrote a letter criticising ByteDance saying the Chinese company may have misled Congress about how much data it shares with China. Both Rodgers and Comer are expected to set the House agenda next year after Republicans won the lower chamber in the just-concluded midterm elections. Read more: Republicans target TikTok for sharing users’ data with China, likely to unleash probe Previously, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) also warned against data leaks through the app. Director Christopher Wray told a House panel that potential Chinese government access to users’ data or software through the app is reason to be “extremely concerned”. Wray added that ByteDance embeds specific application programming interfaces (APIs) in the app which gives Beijing access to “control data collection of millions of users or control the recommendation algorithm". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wary of China, US state of South Dakota bans TikTok on state-owned devices

Republican lawmakers Cathy McMorris Rodgers and James Comer piled pressure on the Chinese short video app TikTok and its owner ByteDance on Tuesday by saying the company may have misled the Congress about how much data it shares with China.

Republican lawmakers Cathy McMorris Rodgers and James Comer piled pressure on the Chinese short video app TikTok and its owner ByteDance on Tuesday by saying the company may have misled the Congress about how much data it shares with China. "Some of the information TikTok provided during the staff briefing appears to be untrue or misleading, including that TikTok does not track US user locations," said the Republican duo in a letter to TikTok Chief Executive Shou Zi Chew. Both Rodgers and Comer are expected to set the House agenda next year after Republicans won the lower chamber in the just-concluded midterm elections. WATCH | US: Senators call TikTok a 'massive surveillance tool; Is TikTok spying on you for China? × When the Republicans formally take over the House in January, they are expected to unleash a slew of investigations ranging from Hunter Biden's laptop story to TikTok and its data policies. The ByteDance-owned app was targetted much more aggressively under former president Donald Trump's tenure and the Republicans are seemingly looking to revert to the same strategy. Earlier this month, the FBI also warned against data leaks through the app, with Director Christopher Wray telling a House panel that potential Chinese government access to users’ data or software is reason to be “extremely concerned”. Wray added that ByteDance embeds specific application programming interfaces (APIs) in the app which gives Beijing access to “control data collection of millions of users or control the recommendation algorithm, which can be used for influence operations, or to control software on millions of devices, which gives the opportunity to potentially technically compromise personal devices.” Read more: FBI director says TikTok poses ‘national security threat’, gives Beijing access to data, devices Afterwards, two US senators called TikTok a Chinese surveillance tool. “It’s not just the content you upload to TikTok but all the data on your phone, other apps, all your personal information, even facial imagery, even where your eyes are looking on your phone,” said Arkansas Republican Tom Cotton. Meanwhile, Senate Intelligence Committee chair Mark Warner, a Virginia Democrat, said the app posed “an enormous threat" while adding, “All of that data that your child is inputting and receiving, is being stored somewhere in Beijing.” The Biden administration is not in favour of inflicting a complete ban on the app like India. However, with pressure mounting from all sides and TikTok not being able to plead its case immaculately, the White House may have to rethink its strategy. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Republicans target TikTok for sharing users’ data with China, likely to unleash probe

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Trending on WION: Biden government tries to avoid ban on TikTok

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