Why would China spy on kids watching crazy videos? Trump defends TikTok, says security risks are not critical

President Donald Trump questioned the security risk of TikTok and delayed a ban on the app, according to a Fox News interview Wednesday. The ban, part of a 2024 law, requires TikTok's Chinese owner, ByteDance Ltd., to divest its US operations. This comes just days after his decision to extend the timeline for ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, to secure a sale and avoid a legislative ban.

TikTok’s security risks not ‘critical’, says Trump

Trump dismissed the idea that TikTok poses a significant threat, questioning whether spying on young users watching videos should be a priority. “Is it that important for China to be spying on young people, on young kids, watching crazy videos?” Trump asked during the interview.

He suggested that concerns should focus on broader risks posed by Chinese-made electronic devices. “They make telephones and they make your computer a lot of other things,” he added. “Isn’t that a bigger threat?”

Legislative history and TikTok’s response

During Trump’s first term, he signed an executive order requiring ByteDance to divest its U.S. operations due to national security concerns. Although federal courts initially blocked the order, lawmakers later codified it into law in 2024. TikTok has consistently denied allegations of spying, stating that it does not share user data with Chinese authorities.

However, officials from former President Joe Biden’s administration warned that TikTok collects extensive user data, including names, addresses, location data, and behavioral information. They argued that the app could be compelled to hand over this data.

Political impact and TikTok ban timeline extended

Trump acknowledged TikTok’s role in improving his appeal among young voters, attributing it to his decision to extend ByteDance’s deadline by an additional 75 days. This extension was part of an executive order signed on his first day in office.

Earlier this week, Trump hinted at his openness to exploring TikTok himself. When asked if he had the app on his phone, he stated he would consider downloading it. TikTok remains banned from government devices, a policy introduced during Biden’s presidency due to security concerns.