Overview
Amid concerns over foreign influence, TikTok has introduced a new policy to restrict the activities of state-backed media on its platform. This move is part of the Chinese social media platform’s efforts to enhance credibility and user acceptance.
TikTok’s New Policy
Under the new policy, state-backed media covering “current global events and affairs” will not appear in users’ “For You” feed if they aim to reach audiences outside their home nation. Additionally, state media will be prohibited from placing advertisements outside their primary country of affiliation.
Definition of State Media
TikTok defines state media as portals whose editorial output or decision-making process is subject to government control or influence.
Foreign Influence Operations
TikTok disclosed that it thwarted 15 foreign influence operations and restricted over 3,000 accounts. Many of these networks were found attempting to influence political discourse, particularly related to elections, among their target audience.
Monetization Program Expansion
In a bid to strengthen its relationship with users and creators, TikTok has expanded its monetization program. Creators with over 1,000 followers can now earn money, a decrease from the previous threshold of 5,000. These creators can also utilize affiliate marketing tools on the platform.
Existential Threat
Following a bill passed by the US Congress, TikTok’s parent company ByteDance is required to sell the app to a non-foreign adversary-controlled entity within a year. Failure to comply will lead to a ban on the app in the US. Recent reports suggest TikTok may lay off hundreds of employees as part of ByteDance’s business restructuring efforts.
