Hmm.
I listen to all the hype about Tik Tok. The fears that surround the use of Facebook.
Yet my kids, my friends, all routinely use these programs, not to mention the one that scares the bejesus out of me – Alexa. (Tell me again why its ok to have a device listen to and respond to your conversations? Even if it is an American firm.)
I am one who routinely turns off all location services on all my devices. I have no need to be tracked – by anyone for anything.
Which brings up the big issue behind this controversy. Why has the government not found its voice, its requirements to demonstrate to us the true facts about these programs? The good, the bad, and the ugly.
By sharing such information,the American public can make an informed decision. Maybe we will all agree to ban the Chinese owned TikTok. And I know (and certainly hope you also so realize) that just because China is not examining our personal data now does not mean that tomorrow won’t be the day they start. Especially since about ½ of all Americans use the service. That sort of advantage is way too tempting.
For example, why can’t America develop some laws to restrict the use of foreign technology, another set to create comprehensive cybersecurity regulations to cover all our technology firms? Would those not provide sufficient protection for Americans?
I worry all the time that we are about to repeat the fiasco of the 1920s. When we passed Prohibition laws against the use of alcohol. No real good came out of that effort! I can see the same results with banning TikTok from our devices….
How about we work on those protective laws- after evaluating risks- instead of creating outright bans?
We always seem to do the easiest thing instead of the right thing.
Touche!
I agree with you – not sure any good would come from banning any social media platforms. But it would be good for us all to be fully informed, so we at least know what the risks are. Good to see you, Paul!
Great addition to the conversation, Jeanine!