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Canada orders TikTok to close local operations, citing national security concerns

Canada ordered TikTok to close its offices in the country, citing security concerns. Photo by antonbe/Pixabay
Canada ordered TikTok to close its offices in the country, citing security concerns. Photo by antonbe/Pixabay

Nov. 7 (UPI) -- Canada ordered TikTok to conclude and close its business activity there over national security and intelligence concerns.

Francois-Philippe Champagne, the minister of innovation, science and industry, said on Wedenesday the decision came after "rigorous scrutiny" of TikTok's Canadian operations by the country's national security leaders.

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"The government is taking action to address the specific national security risks related to ByteDance Ltd.'s operations in Canada through the establishment of TikTok Technology Canada Inc.," Champagne said in a statement.

"The decision was based on the information and evidence collected over the course of the review and on the advice of Canada's security and intelligence community and other government partners."

He said the decision does not block Canadians' access to TikTok or its ability to create content.

"The decision to use a social media application or platform is a personal choice," Champagne said. "It is important for Canadians to adopt good cyber security practices and assess the possible risks of using social media platforms and applications, including how their information is likely to be protected, managed, used and shared by foreign actors."

He said consumers also should be aware of what laws apply to the protection of their information in those countries.

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"The government's decision was made in accordance with the Investment Canada Act, which allows for the review of foreign investments that may be injurious to Canada's national security," Champagne.

TikTok said the government's actions will negatively affect Canadians the most and would appeal.

"Shutting down TikTok's Canadian offices and destroying hundreds of well-paying local jobs is not in anyone's best interest, and today's shutdown order will do just that," TikTok said in a statement.

"We will challenge this order in court. The TikTok platform will remain available for creators to find an audience, explore new interests and for businesses to thrive."

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