INDIANAPOLIS — Purdue University has blocked access to TikTok on the university’s WiFi network.
This block means that students, staff and visitors will not be able to access the social media app while using the school’s WiFi network. People on the campus will still be able to access TikTok while using non-university WiFi or their cellular data plan.
Purdue stated that this decision was due to concerns about cybersecurity risks to user data privacy, threats to national security and algorithmic censorship of free speech.
“Purdue has begun blocking access to TikTok and the usage of the TikTok mobile app across Purdue networks,” Trevor Peters, Purdue’s Senior Communication Specialist, said. “This step is based on TikTok’s overly invasive privacy and use agreements that allow for significant access to phone data, such as keystrokes, geolocation and contacts.”
This decision comes one week after TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, testified on Capitol Hill about the app’s ability to keep user data safe.
PREVIOUS | How big of a threat TikTok actually poses amid Capitol Hill hearing (wrtv.com)
The campus announced in Jan. that it would be banning TikTok on all institutional accounts and devices.
-
Nature theme park approved by Sheridan Town Council
A brand-new nature theme park is about to make waves in Sheridan after approval by the town council. Features will include a natural lake, water slides, ropes courses and more.AES Indiana to host community office hours to prepare for summer energy needs
As summer approaches and temperatures rise, AES Indiana is encouraging customers to proactively plan for increased energy usage and higher bills.ACLU sues Governor Mike Braun over changes to IU Board of Trustees election
The ACLU of Indiana has taken legal action against Governor Mike Braun regarding the budget bill, HEA 1001, which alters the selection process for members of the Indiana University Board of Trustees.Indiana celebrates Small Business Week
Small businesses represent a majority of businesses in the Hoosier state. Indiana is home to more than 570,000 small businesses and those companies employ 1.2 million people.