TikTok’s new privacy policy is sparking a backlash. Here’s what to know.

TikTok, now under U.S. ownership, has recently updated its privacy policy, sparking concerns among users about the extent of data collection. The social media platform split from China-based ByteDance earlier this year to comply with U.S. regulations, leading to the formation of a new U.S.-based entity in control of the app.

The new privacy policy, which was introduced on Jan. 22 along with updated terms and conditions, has raised eyebrows among users. One particular point of contention is the provision allowing TikTok to collect “precise location information” from users’ devices if they enable location services in their settings. This change has led to backlash on social media, with some users expressing privacy fears and even deleting the app.

According to experts, this shift in geolocation practices is a departure from TikTok’s previous policy under ByteDance. The updated privacy policy now includes clearer language about location information and plans to offer U.S. users the option to share their precise location or opt out of this feature. The company intends to use this data to provide new services and features to users.

TikTok’s new ownership structure includes companies like Oracle, Silver Lake, and MGX, with ByteDance retaining a minority stake in the business. However, some users are also expressing concerns about the types of personal information TikTok may collect, including sensitive data such as race, religion, and financial information. The new policy states that TikTok processes this sensitive information in accordance with applicable law.

One of the most significant changes in the new privacy policy is the treatment of location tracking, now explicitly classified as sensitive data. While both the old and new policies mention collecting approximate location based on signals like SIM card region or IP address, the new policy allows TikTok to collect precise location if users enable location services for the app. Users will soon have the option to disable this feature once it is rolled out.

Since the introduction of the new policies, users are required to agree to them to continue using the app. Some critics argue that this lack of choice between accepting the data collection or not using the app at all is not a genuine option for users. Despite concerns about data privacy, many consumers tend to agree to privacy policies without fully reading or understanding them.

It’s important to note that other social media platforms also track personal data, with varying degrees of transparency and user control. While concerns about data privacy persist among consumers, the Pew Research Center found that many Americans still provide apps with access to their personal information without fully understanding the implications.