The Kenyan government is taking steps to ensure that social media giant TikTok is complying with local laws regarding data protection and privacy. The Office of the Data Protection Commissioner has reached out to ByteDance Limited, TikTok’s parent company, to investigate their level of compliance.
Interior CS Kithure Kindiki expressed concerns about TikTok being used by criminal elements to spread propaganda, steal identities, defraud users, and expose minors to inappropriate content. However, he emphasized the importance of conducting a thorough review before considering a ban on the platform.
Kindiki stressed the need for TikTok and other data controllers to adhere to the Data Protection Act and develop evidence-based policies to assess risks versus benefits. He urged lawmakers to focus on long-term solutions rather than quick fixes.
It is essential for platforms like TikTok to prioritize user privacy and security while operating in Kenya. By working together with regulators and lawmakers, a balance can be struck to protect users while still allowing for the benefits of social media platforms.
