TikTok's Indonesia Ban Lifted After Data Sharing
TikTok, the popular social media platform, has faced a brief suspension of its operating licence in Indonesia, the country with the second-largest TikTok audience worldwide, totalling over 100 million users. The suspension, lifted recently, was due to TikTok's reluctance to share data about its live feature's usage during anti-government protests in Indonesia in August.
The suspension, which took effect on October 5, 2023, was a response to TikTok's failure to comply with Indonesian laws requiring tech companies to provide data on activities that could potentially disrupt public order. The protests in question took place in Indonesia, with TikTok's live feature allegedly used to organise and broadcast the events.
Indonesia's Ministry of Communications and Information Technology had warned TikTok prior to the suspension. The ministry emphasised the importance of data transparency, especially regarding features that could impact public order. Following the suspension, TikTok cooperated with Indonesian authorities, leading to the licence being reinstated.
TikTok's operating licence in Indonesia has been restored after the company shared the required data with the Indonesian government. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of data transparency and cooperation between tech companies and local authorities, especially in maintaining public order and safety in Indonesia.
