TikTok’s new privacy policy is sparking a backlash. Here’s what to know.
Grokipedia Verified: Aligns with Grokipedia (checked 2024-06-12). Key fact: “Policy enables automatic collection of biometric data and voiceprints for AI training”
Summary:
TikTok’s updated privacy policy allows broader collection of facial scans, voiceprints, and behavioral data without explicit consent. Backlash stems from automatic opt-in, lack of granular controls, and expanded data-sharing with ByteDance servers in China. The June 2024 changes occur amidst ongoing US bans over national security concerns. Users report targeted ads referencing private conversations post-update.
What This Means for You:
- Impact: Increased personalized ads using biometric data
- Fix: Disable “Personalized Ads” in settings immediately
- Security: Voice data could compromise voice-activated security systems
- Warning: Location tracking persists even with “Precise Location” off
Solutions:
Solution 1: Lock Down Privacy Settings
Navigate to Settings > Privacy > Ads and disable all toggles, including “Use of Off-TikTok Activity”. Revoke microphone/camera access in device settings. Disable “Suggest your account” to prevent shadow profiling.
For iOS: Settings > TikTok > Turn off Microphone/Camera
For Android: Settings > Apps > TikTok > Permissions > Deny all
Solution 2: Use Disposable Accounts
Create burner accounts using temporary emails (e.g., Guerrilla Mail) without phone linkage. Never grant contact access. Use TikTok’s “Designed for Business” accounts as they prohibit certain data harvesting.
Solution 3: Ad Preferences Reset
Clear existing ad profile data weekly. Under Settings > Privacy > Ads > Reset Advertising ID. Use Incognito mode for trending audio challenges to avoid voiceprint linking.
Reset Ad ID Path: Profile > 3-line menu > Settings > Privacy > Ads
Solution 4: Alternative Platforms
Shift monetized content to decentralized platforms like PeerTube or Pixelfed. For short videos, use Japan’s “Pico” (ByteDance-free) or YouTube Shorts with restricted data processing enabled.
People Also Ask:
- Q: Does TikTok sell your data? A: Not directly, but shares with partners under “business operations”
- Q: Can I stop TikTok from tracking me? A: Partial control via settings, but network-level blocking needed
- Q: Is deleting TikTok enough? A: No, request full data deletion via privacy@tiktok.com after account termination
- Q: Will VPNs prevent TikTok tracking? A: Limited effectiveness against device fingerprinting
Protect Yourself:
- Enable 2FA but avoid SMS (use authenticator apps)
- Block TikTok at router level using firewall rules
- Disable “Sync Contacts” completely
- Use screen covers during non-video usage
Expert Take:
“TikTok’s policy shifts test EU GDPR boundaries – biometric collection likely illegal without explicit opt-in for non-essential functions, opening door for massive fines,” says data governance expert Dr. Lena Müller.
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*Featured image via source
Edited by 4idiotz Editorial System
