Trump’s Control of TikTok: A Mixed Bag
President Donald Trump and his team arguably deserve recognition for the strategic move they made regarding TikTok, a popular video-sharing app that has emerged as a significant source of news in the U.S.
However, this deal could be perceived as flawed. Critics have described it, perhaps justifiably, as a kind of “protosocialism,” especially in light of the government’s involvement in purchasing a stake. Intel’s recent acquisition of a 10% share and the so-called “golden share” of American steel raise eyebrows. It’s worth considering—those same bureaucrats who struggle to efficiently manage post offices might not be equipped to handle a $30 trillion economy.
There’s a significant concern that every embedded system from China carries inherent national security threats. Each foreign technology piece in American supply chains acts as another potential listening device or means of control.
Nonetheless, a prominent observer has noted that the shift in TikTok’s management wasn’t primarily about market manipulation. The primary focus was on national security.
National Security Concerns
Even with a majority of American investors using the platform, TikTok is still seen as a severe national security risk. China’s use of technology for espionage is well-documented. This espionage does not only target enemies but can extend to friends, neighbors, and competitors, including U.S. governmental agencies. For at least a decade, hackers working on behalf of Beijing have been compromising secure American systems.
The concerns regarding TikTok’s involvement in espionage are apparent. Its pervasive presence on smartphones offers an opportunity for Beijing to collect private data from an expansive network. Yet, simply transferring control of TikTok to American hands isn’t a foolproof solution.
China’s telecommunications infrastructure isn’t just a business—it’s intertwined with provincial security forces that gather and relay data to the government. Reports from British media detail how companies like Huawei maintain secret backdoors allowing Chinese military access at any moment.
Emerging Risks
Huawei isn’t alone in these activities. A lesser-known firm, Hanshow, which provides “Smart Electronic Shelf Labels” to retailers, exemplifies this trend. This technology offers real-time data to Beijing about consumer purchases.
This information can be weaponized during trade conflicts, especially as the U.S. relies heavily on China for essential goods and medical supplies. It’s not merely a benign marketplace; it can be a way to pinpoint critical supply chain vulnerabilities that could disrupt American life.
The range of products offered by Hanshow extends beyond labels; they supply AI-driven cameras and smart shopping carts. Their technology is leveraged through a unique system called All-Star, allowing easy access for Chinese security services into supermarket IT networks, including point-of-sale systems.
Similar to Huawei, Hanshow is supported by entities linked to the Chinese government and the military. Estimates suggest that tens of millions of Americans have already transmitted sensitive data via devices connected to Hanshow. By 2025, this figure may reach beyond 150 million.
Conclusion
Every foreign technology piece in the U.S. supply chain carries national security risks. The Chinese Communist Party has gained a significant head start, and it’s crucial for Washington to shift its perspective and act. Trump’s move regarding TikTok was necessary, but the fight goes beyond a single app. It’s fundamentally about safeguarding American data and ensuring national security. The U.S. needs a comprehensive strategy to address the ongoing tech encroachment from China—yesterday, really.
