this post was submitted on 26 Jan 2026
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You're missing the point.
China might use your data and hurt you in some far future, whereas the USA will use your data right now in a direct and violent way.
I can explain how the US government having access to the database of all of TikTok's data might directly result in a visit from ICE. The path to damage caused by China may exist too, but is much more nebulous, and much more difficult for China to execute on.
Yes, if you are in a government position, or in the army, you probably shouldn't use TikTok under China's management. But Joe Schmoe from California has little to materially fear from them. But he does have reason to fear the USA government who might well come over and arrest him.
Joe Schmoe ended up in a situation no different than if tiktok had been US to begin with, since capitalistic companies will sell out everyone to keep the money flowing over shutting down. So country of origin never ended up mattering in making the app as much of a red flag as installing facebook, instagram, and twitter.
Using corporate social media that encourages people to share their faces, names, and voices are sketchy to begin with while also having the apps so intrusive they get access to everything on your phone from contacts to phone numbers.
I see people arguing country a lot, but I've never really understood it myself because I never believed who was collecting data would guarantee that data doesn't end up in the hands of those unintended to get it.
Just as the tiktok transfer shows.
I think we agree on that. my point is, we don't need to use neither usa tech or chinese tech for our social media platforms. we shouldn't celebrate china being there "to save us".
also, I think china could still hurt us, on the short term, by manipulating elections and other things through manipulating public opinion and the values people hold. they have both the data and the channels to execute it.
You are right, we don't need either but you are already preaching to the choir as you are here in the fediverse.
looking at the parent comments, or the other reply I got, I don't think everyone agrees
if you're still scared of china at this point the propaganda has unfortunately broken through and taken root in your brain stem, i'm sorry, there's very little any of us can do to help you