TikTok, the popular video-sharing app, is currently dealing with a cyber-attack that targeted several brands and celebrities. The Chinese-owned company, ByteDance, revealed that a “very limited” number of accounts were compromised in the attack. TikTok is now working with affected users to restore access to their accounts.
Although TikTok did not disclose specific details about the cyber-attack, it was confirmed that one of the compromised accounts belonged to news outlet CNN. A TikTok spokesperson stated, “We have been collaborating closely with CNN to restore account access and implement enhanced security measures to safeguard their account moving forward.”
Another high-profile target of the cyber-attack was reality TV star Paris Hilton, who has a massive following of over 10 million on TikTok. Fortunately, Hilton’s account was not compromised in the attack.
This incident comes at a critical time for TikTok as it faces a potential ban in the US unless it is sold by its Chinese parent company. The platform has been under scrutiny for its data security and ties to the Chinese government. Additionally, TikTok has become a new battleground for social media in the upcoming US elections, with both President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden using the platform to engage with voters.
Despite Trump’s previous attempts to ban TikTok, he recently joined the platform and has gained over five million followers. On the other hand, Biden has around 350,000 followers on TikTok. The platform’s role in the US elections and its ongoing security concerns continue to be a topic of debate.
