The Rest Is Classified 13. How China Spies: Trump, TikTok, and Taiwan
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Jan 22, 2025 Is TikTok a spy tool for China? The ban in the U.S. ignites debates on national security and data privacy. Delve into TikTok's influence on public opinion and its potential as an intelligence-gathering platform. Explore the concept of cognitive warfare, where social media shapes perceptions, especially regarding China and Taiwan. Historical anecdotes juxtapose modern rivalries, revealing the ongoing U.S.-China tech battle and featuring impressive tales from WWII espionage. Tune in for a blend of serious analysis and light-hearted banter!
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TikTok Data Collection
- TikTok collects user data like contacts, location, browsing history, and in-app purchases.
- This data is similar to what other social media apps collect, but the concern arises from its potential access by the Chinese government.
Three Potential Uses of TikTok by the MSS
- The MSS could use TikTok for data collection, spyware, and algorithmic manipulation.
- Data collection is less valuable than other data breaches, spyware use is unconfirmed, but algorithmic manipulation poses a significant threat.
OPM Data Breach
- China stole sensitive data from the US Office of Personnel Management (OPM).
- This data included background checks of millions of US government employees, potentially useful for blackmail.
