The TikTok Ban Bill: Implications for American Tech Users

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Image of a computer user in jail because of violating the proposed TikTok ban bill. AKA the RESTRICT act.

Here at BETV we’ve been closely following the congressional hearings on the “Tik Tok Ban Bill.” Officially called the “Restricting the Emergence of Security Threats that Risk Information and Communications Technology (RESTRICT)” Act, it would give the federal government sweeping powers to fine and jail Americans for using a range of popular technologies they deem threats to national security

It gives the government authority over all forms of communication domestic or abroad and grants powers to “enforce any mitigation measure to address any risk” to national security now and in any “potential future transaction”

Targeted apps could also include VPNs and other popular apps and tools like WhatsApp, Signal, and Tor, which are popular among journalists, activists, and others who need to protect their online privacy.

VPNs are commonly used to protect online privacy and security. I use one myself. (Sidenote – It also allowed me to watch episodes of Richrad Ayoade’s Travel Man on the BBC which weren’t available to US users.) This has led to fears that the bill could be used to target individuals who are simply trying to protect their personal information online or access geo-restricted information.

Potential punishment? Fines of a million dollars or 20 years in jail or both. I don’t know if Travel Man was worth 20 years in the slammer.

Another issue with the Tik Tok ban bill is that it could have a chilling effect on free speech and innovation. By giving the government broad powers to regulate and punish the use of certain technologies, the bill could stifle the development of new apps and tools that could be beneficial to society.

There are better ways to address the national security concerns posed by these technologies. For example, implementing stricter security protocols and monitoring measures, rather than banning or punishing the use of certain apps.

Overall, the Tik Tol ban bill raises serious concerns about government overreach and infringement of civil liberties. While it is important to protect national security, it is equally important to ensure that individual’s rights and freedoms are not unduly restricted in the process.

As this bill continues to be debated and refined, it is crucial that lawmakers who are not known as a tech-savvy bunch carefully consider the potential implications and consequences of their actions.