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.
-
Fishers debuts free indoor holiday event Jingle Bell Junction for families
Fishers is bringing holiday magic indoors with its first-ever Jingle Bell Junction, a free winter wonderland event running through the next few days at the Nickel Plate Amphitheater.
Northridge neighbors push for safety upgrades as Brownsburg grows
Neighbors in the Northridge subdivision say speeding has gotten out of control, and town leaders are now moving toward safety upgrades they hope will slow drivers down before someone gets hurt.
IU's DE Stephen Daley expected to miss the rest of this season, playoffs
Defensive end Stephen Daley is expected to miss the College Football Playoff after getting injured during No. 1 Indiana’s Big Ten championship celebration.
Coach Steichen says Colts will decide Rivers' playing status by week's end
The Colts will decide by the end of the week on whether newly signed practice squad quarterback Philip Rivers will be available for Sunday's game in Seattle, head coach Shane Steichen said Wednesday.