BBC asks staff to delete TikTok from mobile phones over privacy and security concerns
TikTok app
British broadcaster BBC has urged its staff to delete TikTok from corporate mobile phones due to privacy and security concerns about the Chinese-owned video sharing app.
UK-based media outlets reported that BBC staff received a guidance on Sunday, which read: "We don't recommend installing TikTok on a BBC corporate device unless there is a justified business reason. If you do not need TikTok for business reasons, TikTok should be deleted."
This comes days after the UK announced a ban on TikTok on government devices. The decision was in line with similar actions by European Union, the United States and New Zealand. India had entirely banned the app.
UK Cabinet Office minister Oliver Dowden told parliament, "We are going to ban the use of TikTok on government devices. We will do so with immediate effect."
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There are growing concerns over data security risks as several experts pointed out that the app might be used to promote pro-China views and illegally gather data of users.
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As quoted, the BBC guidance further noted: "The decision is based on concerns raised by government authorities worldwide regarding data privacy and security."
WATCH |After UK, New Zealand to ban TIKTOK app on government devices
It is also reported that the broadcaster has asked the employees who have TikTok on their phones and use the same device for official work, to reach out to the information security team of the company to get the details and discuss "the type of BBC information that you are working with".
As quoted, a BBC spokesperson said: "The BBC takes the safety and security of our systems, data and people incredibly seriously. We constantly review activity on third-party platforms – including TikTok – and will continue to do so."
(With inputs from agencies)
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