The US government announced today that it will be banning popular Chinese-based applications TikTok and WeChat. Previously, the government had floated the idea causing alarm for the apps' massive user bases. The ban for WeChat is scheduled to start on September 20 and the ban on TikTok is slated to go into effect on November 12.
It's being reported that the ban will be enacted by two main methods:
Removing the applications from the Google and Apple app stores in the United States
Making it illegal [for internet service providers] to host traffic associated with the applications
What Does a TikTok and WeChat Ban Mean for Application Users?
For users living in the United States who already have these apps installed on their devices, the ban means you'll be unable to update your applications with the latest versions. For those who don't have the applications, it means you'll be unable to download them from US-based app stores once the ban goes into effect.
When it comes to WeChat the restrictions are greater; a release from the US Commerce Department states it will be "illegal to host or transfer internet traffic associated with WeChat." Presumably, this means that ISPs will be responsible for blocking access to the applications from their networks. Implications for people using the previously-installed applications are not yet clear, although one source states that users will "not be targeted or subject to penalties."
Come November 12 TikTok users will face a similar same set of circumstances. It is possible, however, the TikTak ban will not come to fruition. Currently, the companies Oracle and ByteDance, the Chinese parent company of TikTok, are working on a deal by which the application would address security concerns and thus be able to remain operable in the country.
What Can WeChat or TikTok Users Do About the Ban?
If you're a user of either application, there are a few things you can do to attempt to retain access to your applications.
Download or update to the latest version of the application from the app store in advance of the ban going into effect
Get a VPN, which can help you circumvent censorship and blocks on popular applications, websites and content around the world
Seek alternate forms of communication with loved ones overseas, so if access is lost you are still connected
At VyprVPN we stand for a free and open internet experience for internet users around the world. We're committed to fighting censorship, and will be sharing more information on how you can bypass the bans on WeChat and TikTok next week in a detailed guide. Stay tuned!