American Content Creators Seek Alternatives as TikTok Faces Ban

By Seher Dareen

American content creators on TikTok are urging followers to subscribe to their channels on other platforms like Meta-owned Instagram and YouTube. This comes after a federal appeals court ruled that TikTok could be banned unless its Chinese owner, ByteDance, sells the app to a U.S.-based company by January 19.

TikTok has amassed 170 million U.S. users, attracting younger audiences with its entertaining short videos. However, concerns about data privacy have pushed U.S. Congress to pass a law demanding ByteDance divest TikTok in the U.S. or face a ban.

Despite political pressure, many TikTok users felt immune to the threats until the recent judgment made the ban seem imminent. Chris Mowrey, a social media influencer, expressed anxiety over losing his platform and its economic impacts.

TikTok creators shared their concerns, with some doubting the app's survival. Chris Burkett, a lifestyle creator with 1.3 million followers, shared his belief in TikTok's lack of longevity and called on followers to engage with him on other platforms. Similarly, food travel creator SnipingForDom urged his followers to connect on Instagram, though he remained optimistic about TikTok's future.

Others, like TikTok Shop consultant Sarah Jannetti, noted their clients aren't worried yet and will wait for concrete updates before making changes.