TikTok has warned that it may cease operations in the United States on Sunday unless the government provides guarantees that a new law mandating its ban will not target service providers.
In a statement issued Friday, the social media giant said, “Unless the Biden Administration immediately provides a definitive statement to satisfy the most critical service providers assuring non-enforcement, unfortunately, TikTok will be forced to go dark on January 19.”
The warning follows a Supreme Court ruling upholding a law that requires TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to either divest its US operations or face a complete ban.
The unanimous decision cited national security concerns linked to ByteDance’s Chinese ownership and data collection practices, affirming Congress’ position that divestiture was necessary.
Despite the ruling, the Biden administration has indicated it will not enforce the ban, leaving the issue for incoming President Donald Trump to address.
Trump, who opposes the ban, is reportedly in discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping and has promised to explore alternatives.
“The Supreme Court decision was expected, and everyone must respect it,” Trump stated on Truth Social while noting that he would need time to craft a solution.
TikTok CEO Shou Chew expressed gratitude toward Trump, praising his commitment to finding a resolution.
Chew is set to attend Trump’s inauguration on Monday in what appears to be a last-ditch effort to prevent the platform’s shutdown.
The Department of Justice has also signalled a potential delay in enforcing the ban, describing the process as one “that plays out over time.”
If the law is enforced, Apple and Google will be required to remove TikTok from their app stores, preventing new downloads. Both companies could face fines of up to $5,000 per user who accesses the app.
Influencers and advertisers have expressed concern over TikTok’s uncertain future, with many stating that its features and reach cannot be easily replicated by competitors like Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts.
Digital marketing expert Courtney Spritzer added that the looming shutdown has left advertisers in limbo, with some preparing for closure while others remain hopeful for a resolution.
The incoming Trump administration has floated the possibility of a 90-day delay in the ban if significant progress is made toward a viable deal.
Former Los Angeles Dodgers owner Frank McCourt has expressed interest in acquiring TikTok’s US operations, stating his willingness to collaborate with the company and the Trump administration.
Despite these efforts, TikTok lawyer Noel Francisco has warned that the app may be forced to shut down as early as Sunday if no legal or political breakthrough occurs.
