When US TikTok users opened the app recently, they encountered a pop-up asking for agreement to updated terms of service and privacy policy. This change comes as TikTok shifts from Chinese ownership to a new US-based group known as TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC, which includes Oracle among its investors.
Most people quickly agree to these terms to get back to their videos, often missing the significant changes. Under this new ownership, TikTok aims to collect more detailed user data, including precise location information. A spokesperson for TikTok USDS did not provide any comments regarding these changes.
Here are the three key updates to TikTok’s privacy policy that every user should know:
1. Precise Location Tracking
Previously, TikTok only gathered rough location data, but now, if users allow it, the app can track exact GPS locations. This type of data collection is similar to that used by platforms like Instagram and Twitter.
Old Policy: TikTok collected approximate location data based on SIM cards or IP addresses.
New Policy: Users who enable location services will have TikTok access their GPS location.
2. Data on AI Interactions
TikTok’s updated policy now includes explicit mention of data collected from user interactions with its AI tools. This means the app will log details about prompts, questions, and even the responses generated by AI.
Old Policy: No mention was made of AI interactions.
New Policy: TikTok collects data on any user prompts and outputs from AI, along with metadata that shows how and when the interactions took place.
3. Broader Ad Network
While users may not notice this change immediately, TikTok now uses collected data to deliver targeted ads not just within the app, but across the web. This means advertisers can reach users more effectively, increasing the relevance of ads users see while browsing other sites.
Old Policy: No specific mentions of how advertising data was utilized outside TikTok.
New Policy: TikTok includes partnerships with publishers to enhance its advertising network.
Why This Matters
Understanding these updates is crucial. A 2022 survey showed that nearly 70% of social media users worry about their privacy online, yet many agree to new terms without reading them. Experts, like data privacy strategist Mary DeSimone, warn that “users should always be cautious when agreeing to new terms. Read them closely, as your data rights could be at stake.”
Moreover, TikTok’s increased data collection aligns with broader trends in the tech industry. A report by the Pew Research Center found that more than 80% of adults have concerns about how social media companies use their data.
As users, it’s important to be aware of how platforms like TikTok change their policies. The more informed you are, the better you can protect your privacy while enjoying the content you love.
For more on TikTok’s new privacy policy, check out their official page.
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