The popular social media platform TikTok was demanded to adhere to the privacy policies and regulations and user verification laws. The concerns were that the social media was used for unwarranted usage for propagating misinformation, fraudulent contents propaganda, and abusive sexual content.
The interior minister of Kenya, Kithure Kindiki expressed his concerns to the Data Protection Commission that harmful contents and violations of law is being carried out by the criminals through this platform. Mr.Kindiki said the criminals used the platform "to spread malicious propaganda, steal popular accounts through identity theft and impersonation" and to "conduct fraud by duping Kenyans into fake forex trades and fake job recruitments". The government expressed that these risks have caused distress among the users, and the minors were exposed to inappropriate content and promoted discord among citizens.
The TikTok, owned by Chinese company ByteDance, has not yet responded to the request or has been willing to comment on the scenario.
But rather than a ban the advisory committee has suggested for a co-regulation framework.
Under this proposed framework, TikTok would be mandated to screen its content to ensure compliance with Kenyan laws. Additionally, the platform would be required to submit quarterly reports to the government detailing the material removed.
