TikTok ordered to shut down business operations in Canada, but the app isn't banned

TikTok was recently sued by attorney generals of fourteen different states in the US accusing the platform of harming children. In addition, TikTok is also facing lawsuits by seven families in France accusing the platform of contributing to the suicides of their teenage children. Adding to the existing problems, Canada has now ordered TikTok to shut down all its operations in the country.

Canada orders TikTok to shut down all its business operations in the country

A statement issued by Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry Francois-Philippe Champagne reads “The government is taking action to address the specific national security risks related to ByteDance Ltd.’s operations in Canada through the establishment of TikTok Technology Canada, Inc.”

The decision apparently came after a thorough investigation of evidence and information collected over time. Champagne also said that Canada’s security and intelligence community and other government partners advised to take this step.

Canada has already banned the use of the TikTok app from official government devices. The decision came earlier this year after the US passed a bill to ban TikTok in the country. While doing so, US lawmakers cited that TikTok has become a national security threat given its relationship with China.

Canadian citizens can still use the TikTok app

Although Canada has ordered TikTok to shut down its business operations, it hasn’t banned the use of the app. The Canadian government believes the decision to use a social media app or platform is a personal choice.

Therefore, the government doesn’t want to intervene. A part of Champagne’s statement reads, “The government is not blocking Canadians’ access to the TikTok application or their ability to create content.” Meanwhile, TikTok has its say following Canada’s recent order.

In a statement, a TikTok representative said, “Shutting down TikTok’s Canadian offices and destroying hundreds of well-paying local jobs is not in anyone’s best interest, and today’s shutdown order will do just that.” Moreover, TikTok also plans to challenge the Canadian government’s decision in court.