PH Military Prohibits Use of TikTok Among Uniformed Personnel

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In a recent development, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has implemented a ban on the use of TikTok, the popular social media app, for military personnel. This decision comes as a precautionary measure against potential cybersecurity risks associated with the application.

Police Colonel Francel Padilla, AFP spokesman, stated that the ban will be enforced on both work and personal phones of military personnel. “Sa AFP, banned na po siya (In AFP, the use of TikTok has been banned already). So we are not allowed to use TikTok. For one, because it’s an application made by China but is not used by China. So that in itself, we say go figure,” she explained in an interview aired over GMA network.

The directive to ban TikTok stems from concerns regarding the app’s origin and its potential to compromise sensitive data. TikTok, developed by a Chinese company, raises questions about data privacy and security. While it is not used within China itself, the app’s global reach has prompted various countries, including the United States, India, and Canada, to consider banning it on government phones and for state workers.

Padilla further emphasized that TikTok, along with other free apps, often requests access to phone features such as the camera, microphone, and messages, even though these functions are unrelated to their services. “Not just TikTok, but the free apps that we have in our gadgets, they have the capability to turn on our microphones, to look at us and watch us while we sleep and turn on our cameras, access our SMS sent messages to our contacts because we gave them permission when we downloaded these applications,” she cautioned.

This ban on TikTok by the AFP is in line with the National Security Council’s (NSC) previous statement in September last year. The NSC had expressed concerns about a potential “data leak” and had been actively studying the possibility of banning TikTok among government uniformed personnel.

It is important to note that the ban on TikTok is not exclusive to the Philippines. Several other countries have taken similar measures due to concerns about the app’s ties to the Chinese government and the potential compromise of sensitive information. The United States, India, and Canada have all announced plans to ban TikTok on government phones and for state workers.

The ban on TikTok by the AFP serves as a reminder of the importance of cybersecurity and the need for vigilance when it comes to protecting sensitive data. As technology continues to advance, it is crucial for organizations and individuals to prioritize data privacy and take necessary precautions to mitigate potential risks.

In conclusion, the ban on TikTok by the Armed Forces of the Philippines is a proactive step to safeguard against cybersecurity threats. By prohibiting the use of TikTok, the AFP aims to protect military personnel and sensitive information from potential compromise. This decision is in line with similar actions taken by other countries, highlighting the global concern surrounding data privacy and security. As technology evolves, it is essential for individuals and organizations to remain vigilant and prioritize cybersecurity to ensure the protection of sensitive data.

Source: The Manila Times

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