Is TikTok Back for Good?

By: Aaliyah Michael , Seasonal Public Relations Intern | Digital4Good

“We’re so back!”....or are we? Just weeks ago, the wildly popular short-form video app, TikTok, was in danger of being banned in the United States. After a temporary shutdown on January 18, the app’s services were miraculously restored in less than a day.?

Since the January 18 blackout, users have debated whether the app is really worth their time. While many are ecstatic to have regained access to their favorite app, others have already started packing their digital bags. Ultimately, one question remains: How long will TikTok be “back”?

Why Was TikTok Shut Down?

What Is TikTok?

Released in September 2016, this popular social media app allows users to create, watch, and share short-form videos recorded on mobile devices. A wide range of genres exist on the app, including “day in the life” content, comedy, global news discussions, product advertisements, and much more. Many users enjoy the app as a quick, convenient source of entertainment and information.

Security Concerns

TikTok has been labeled a possible security threat by some United States government officials. Allegations suggest that TikTok is transferring user data to China, where TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, is headquartered. According to Jack Turner, a writer at Tech.Co, the Justice Department issued a warning in July 2024 that TikTok was scraping data to determine millions of users' views on sensitive topics.?

Why Did TikTok Return?

On January 19, 2025, President Donald Trump promised a pause on the TikTok ban (which runs counter to his initial call for a ban in 2020). Following his statement, web providers like Oracle and Akamai restored TikTok’s services to the U.S. The next day, Trump issued an executive order that granted an extension period of 75 days to determine the future of the app.?

With the abrupt resurgence of TikTok fourteen hours after the blackout, users are skeptical of the app’s longevity. Returning users have noticed new issues, such as the possible censorship of content about the Los Angeles fires and difficulty accessing live streams.?

In addition, anyone who deleted TikTok prior to the temporary shutdown likely won’t be able to recover the app. Google and Apple have halted downloads of TikTok on their app stores, as “[u]nder federal legislation, which remains in place despite Trump's order, companies could be fined $5,000 per user they help access TikTok.”?

What’s Next??

With TikTok’s future uncertain, users have begun migrating to other platforms, including Rednote and Triller. Rednote is a social media app that combines e-commerce and short-form video content, while Triller allows users to create short music videos. Both apps appeal to TikTok users due to their user-friendly designs.

Regardless of what apps you use, it is important to keep yourself informed of how social media companies use your data. Regularly review the platforms’ privacy policies and make sure to update your accounts’ data privacy settings.?

Whether you’re on TikTok or Triller, Digital4Good is here to keep you updated on the latest social media news and help you navigate the ever-changing digital landscape. Check out our on-demand Digital Safety Course for more digital privacy and security guidance.