On January 19, 2025, TikTok ceased operations for users in the United States as a new federal law banning the app took effect. Users attempting to access the platform received notifications stating, "A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the U.S. Unfortunately, that means you can't use TikTok for now." The app has also been removed from major app stores, including Google and Apple.
The shutdown follows a warning issued by TikTok on January 18, indicating that the app would soon become "temporarily unavailable" due to the enforcement of the law. This legislation requires TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, to divest from its Chinese ownership or face a complete ban in the U.S.
In response to the shutdown, TikTok expressed regret and stated that it is working to restore services in the U.S. as soon as possible. The company also mentioned that President Donald Trump had indicated he would work towards a solution to reinstate TikTok once he assumes office, potentially granting a 90-day reprieve.
The law's implementation has raised concerns regarding data privacy and national security, with the U.S. government suspecting that the Chinese government could access American users' data through the platform. The Supreme Court upheld the law, rejecting TikTok's appeals against the divestment requirement.
As the app's future hangs in the balance, notable figures, including musician Bob Dylan, have joined TikTok, further highlighting the platform’s cultural significance despite its uncertain status in the U.S.