TikTok goes offline for 170m+ US users, as divest-or-ban law takes effect

TikTok has temporarily ceased operations in the U.S., affecting over 170 million users. This shutdown occurred just before a new law was enacted, which mandates the divestiture of TikTok’s U.S. operations due to security concerns linked to its Chinese ownership. The Supreme Court confirmed this requirement on January 17. Currently, U.S. users attempting to access TikTok are greeted with a message informing them of the ban and advising them that President Trump intends to collaborate on a resolution to reactivate TikTok once he assumes office. Users are also reminded they can still download their data. Both Google and Apple have removed TikTok from their stores in compliance with the law.

Furthermore, ByteDance’s other applications, including CapCut and LeTikTok, have been affected. Following the Supreme Court’s decision, TikTok announced it would shut down unless there was immediate clarification from the Biden Administration regarding enforcement. The White House responded by calling this move a “stunt,” stating that the responsibility for implementing the law would transfer to the next administration, urging TikTok to direct any concerns there.

Reports suggest President Trump is contemplating a temporary suspension of the ban through an executive order, providing time to secure a U.S. buyer for TikTok or to develop another solution. Trump has hinted at likely extending the deadline by 90 days, acknowledging the complexity of the situation and suggesting an announcement could come as soon as his inauguration on January 20.