Somalia bans TikTok, Telegram

Communications Minister Jama Hassan Khalif said he has ordered internet companies to block TikTok, Telegram, and a gambling website frequently used by terrorist groups to spread horrific images and misinformation to the public.

This is the first attempt by a government agency in Somalia to shut down social media.

Somali internet service providers must block TikTok by August 24th. (Image: The Atlantic).

Members of the Shabaab insurgency actively use Telegram and TikTok to post about their activities. According to the Africa Command (Africom), Al-Shabab is the world's largest al-Qaeda network.

The Somali government gave internet service providers 24/8 to comply. TikTok declined to comment on the ban, saying it was awaiting official notification. Meanwhile, Telegram affirmed that it continuously removes terrorist propaganda in Somalia and globally. The platform also proactively manages harmful content.

Content creators who monetize the platform have expressed concern that the ban will impact their income.

TikTok has also faced threats of a ban in the US due to its Chinese origin. Montana was the first US state to ban the app in May 2023. More recently, New York City banned TikTok on government devices due to security concerns. New York City agencies were required to remove the app from government devices within 30 days. City employees were prohibited from downloading or using the TikTok app or accessing its website on government-issued devices.

(According to Reuters)

New York bans TikTok, YouTube removes videos promoting false healing methods ;... these are some of the highlights in this week's Saturday technology news.

Source: https://vietnamnet.vn/somalia-cam-tiktok-telegram-2180360.html