TikTok service restoration efforts underway amid U.S. law

TikTok restores service after Trump intervention; seeks deal for U.S. ownership amid app’s ban for national security.

TikTok announced on Sunday that it is working to restore service in the U.S. after the app went inactive for American users due to a new law.

The statement thanked former President Trump for his support and indicated that the company aims to negotiate a long-term solution with the incoming president.

On Truth Social, Trump encouraged companies to assist in keeping TikTok operational, stating that his order would delay the law’s prohibitions and facilitate negotiations to address national security concerns.

He also mentioned that companies helping to prevent TikTok from ceasing operations would not face any liability prior to his order, responding to TikTok’s request for assurance from the Biden administration.

Service was halted for 170 million users following a law that mandated TikTok to divest from its Chinese ownership or cease operations in the U.S. This unprecedented government action affected numerous American businesses and social media users dependent on TikTok.

Users encountered messages indicating that the app was not available, and it could no longer be downloaded from major app stores. TikTok communicated that a law banning the app was enacted, urging users to stay informed about potential reinstatement.

Trump proposed a solution involving a 50% U.S. ownership stake in a joint venture, though he did not elaborate on the specifics. He stated that this approach would safeguard TikTok’s future in the American market.