Popular social media app TikTok went offline for users across the United States on Sunday morning, as a new law banning the service came into force. The legislation, passed by Congress last April, prohibits the distribution and updating of TikTok on U.S. soil as long as the platform remains under Chinese control through its parent company ByteDance.
The move to ban TikTok has been fueled by concerns from American intelligence agencies—most notably the FBI—about potential national security risks. Officials worry the Chinese government could exploit the app for surveillance, blackmail, or the spread of disinformation. Critics of TikTok also point to Chinese laws that compel domestic companies to cooperate with state security services.
Despite the ban officially taking effect, the White House indicated it would not enforce it on the final day of President Joe Biden’s administration, deferring the matter to President-elect Donald Trump. In a statement on Saturday, Trump—who is set to assume office Monday—said he would “most likely” grant a 90-day reprieve, giving ByteDance extra time to negotiate a deal to continue operating in the U.S.
“Granting a 90-day delay makes sense,” Trump told NBC. “If I decide to do it, I’ll probably announce it on Monday.”
TikTok, in a message displayed to users attempting to access the app, acknowledged the ban but expressed hope that Trump would soon restore the platform. It cited the incoming president’s assurances that he opposes the new law and plans to “save” the app.
Meanwhile, the Biden White House called TikTok’s weekend shutdown announcement a “trick,” stating there was no immediate reason the company must halt operations before the transition to Trump’s administration is complete.