The Canadian government has ordered TikTok to shut down its business operations in Canada after a review concerning national security.
Although the app’s business presence will end, Canadians can still use TikTok, as the decision does not restrict access to the app itself.
Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne announced the move on Wednesday, explaining that the decision addresses risks associated with TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance Ltd., and its subsidiary TikTok Technology Canada Inc.
The order, Champagne stated, follows advice from Canada’s security and intelligence agencies.
While TikTok’s business operations will cease, Canadians can still download, create accounts, and use the app as usual.
The government, however, encourages Canadians to exercise caution regarding cybersecurity and consider risks when using social media.
A TikTok spokesperson responded that the order would result in significant job losses in Canada and stated the company intends to challenge the decision in court.
“The TikTok platform will still be available for creators to reach audiences, explore interests, and support business growth,” the spokesperson added.
Concerns over TikTok’s data security extend beyond Canada. In the United States, the House of Representatives approved a bill in March 2024 requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok or face a ban, scheduled to go into effect in January 2025, unless President-elect Trump decides otherwise. Trump, who initially supported a TikTok ban in 2020, has since voiced support for the platform.
The United States prohibited TikTok on federal devices in 2020, while Canada followed suit with a similar ban on government devices in February 2023 amid its security review.