Decoder with Nilay Patel Why the TikTok ban won't solve the US's online privacy problems
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Apr 25, 2024 
Lauren Feiner, a Senior Policy Reporter at The Verge with a focus on technology regulation, dives deep into the TikTok ban and its implications for U.S. privacy law. She highlights the roots of the ban in Congressional inaction on privacy legislation. The discussion covers how banning TikTok won’t solve broader data security issues and the need for comprehensive federal privacy reforms. Feiner also addresses the complex relationship between national security, algorithm transparency, and the future of tech policy amidst rising concerns over user privacy.
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TikTok Ban and Privacy Law
- The TikTok ban is framed around national security concerns related to China.
- However, the core issue lies in the lack of comprehensive U.S. privacy law.
Trump's TikTok Ban Attempt
- During the Trump administration, a TikTok prank allegedly led to a sparsely attended rally.
- This prompted Trump's initial attempt to ban TikTok, involving potential buyers like Microsoft and Oracle.
Current vs. Trump's Ban
- The current TikTok ban differs from Trump's attempt in its mechanism and authority.
- Congress, not the executive branch, is driving the current ban, making it legally stronger.