TikTok already banned on States' devices

Wednesday 22 March 2023

Wider national security concerns that have seen governments ban TikTok is not the reason the States of Guernsey do not permit the popular app on government devices.

The Chinese-owned social media app has whipped up fears globally that sensitive data held on devices which carry it could be accessed by the Chinese government.

But while there may be national security concerns, the States of Guernsey has a much simpler reason for not permitting the app on government devices. 

A States spokesperson said: “Restrictions are in place on States of Guernsey mobile devices meaning a number of non-work-related apps are already not permitted and this includes TikTok."

The States also said its official TikTok account, which was only used between March and September 2020, will not be used again.

Pictured: It has been two and half years since the States used their TikTok account. 

HM Government recently banned the use of TikTok on work devices as a precautionary security measure, following a security review conducted by the Cabinet Office. Strengthened government policy on the management of third-party apps was also recommended. 

The Government of Jersey says it is reviewing the security risk posed by the app on state devices.

The United States, European Commission, Canada, Belgium, India, New Zealand have also instigated bans. 

TikTok have accused nations that have banned the device of playing geopolitics and acting on fears rather than facts. 

Pictured: TikTok strongly rejects allegations of impropriety.

How do we handle national security? 

HM Government is responsible for the defence of the Bailiwick, but not national security.

The UK coordinates national security through the Cabinet Office, which supports the government by ensuring the delivery of various objectives across multiple departments.

The National Security Secretariat is mainly responsible for this on a day-to-day basis, and the Joint Intelligence Committee provides wide-ranging assessments on security and foreign policy issues.

Together they advise the Prime Minister and Whitehall on these issues. 

Guernsey operates a more spread-out approach, with no lead officer looking after that area.

“In general terms, national security is a broad concept that extends across a wide range of States of Guernsey service areas, and at times will form part of the work and considerations for areas such as law enforcement, external relations, cybersecurity, emergency planning and others,” a States spokesperson said.

“Where appropriate the States will engage with the UK or other jurisdictions on matters of national security, such as in the area of cyber security or civil contingencies.”