The Department of Industry now says Canadians’ use of TikTok is a “personal choice,” after cabinet claimed it forced the Chinese-run app to phase out operations in Canada, per Blacklock’s Reporter.
Disclosure of the December 6 briefing note on TikTok technology use in Canada, came as Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre said all Conservative legislators were boycotting TikTok in the name of national security.
“The government is not blocking Canadians’ access to the TikTok application or their ability to create content,” said the brief.
“The use of a social media application or platform is a personal choice.”
“The Government of Canada strongly recommends all Canadians understand the risks and make informed decisions about their usage of social media applications or platforms,” wrote the industry department. It did not elaborate.
Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne last November 6 claimed he instructed TikTok to phase out its Canadian operations “following a national security review” under the Investment Canada Act.
No legal text of such an order has been released to date. TikTok faces an effective ban on operations in the US effective January 19.
Opposition Leader Poilievre yesterday said he had told Party members to boycott the app. “I have already ordered all of our Conservative MPs, senators and our staff to stay away from TikTok altogether,” said Poilievre.
“Stop using it, because it risks infiltration and espionage and manipulation by the hostile regime in Beijing.”
Asked by a reporter whether any future Conservative cabinet would enact a US-style national ban, Poilievre replied: “I don’t have anything to announce right now but it’s a good question. We will be following it.”
“If you were to form government is that something you would pursue?” asked a reporter.
“That’s a good question,” replied Poilievre.
The Treasury Board last January 28 banned TikTok on all government-issue smartphones.
“It presents an unacceptable level of risk to privacy and security,” the board said at the time.
Adam Fisher, director general of Canadian Security Intelligence Service assessments, in testimony last February 6 at the Commons Special Committee on Canada-China Relations said TikTok was no ordinary app.
“Vast amounts of data can be collected,” testified Fisher.
“It can assist the adversary in honing in their own targeting in terms of foreign influence activity.”
“It’s also a vector for messaging and narratives that are friendly to and supportive of the authoritative regime.”
“Can you tell us what the Canadian Security Intelligence Service assessment is of TikTok with respect to espionage?” asked Conservative MP Michael Chong.
“I wouldn’t comment specifically on TikTok,” replied Fisher.
“Would you recommend that TikTok be banned from Government of Canada devices?” asked Chong.
“The Service provides assessments and advice to government and decision makers,” replied Fisher.
“That sort of thing is done in a confidential setting.”