Fact-check: Misleading claims about TikTok ban in Canada debunked

Some social media users are urging a ban on TikTok in Pakistan, citing a supposed recent ban on the app in Canada due to national security concerns.

This claim is misleading and lacks important context.

Claim

On November 7, a user on X (formerly known as Twitter) alleged that the Canadian government had banned TikTok, calling it a national security issue.

"We have long been insisting that Pakistan also consider TikTok a national security threat and ban it, but no one is ready to listen," the account added. This post has garnered over 18,000 views, 670 shares, and 1,400 likes to date.

The claims were repeated here, here and here.

Fact

Earlier this month, the Canadian government ordered TikTok Technology Canada, Inc to cease its operations in Canada due to security concerns. However, this directive does not include a public ban on the app.

On November 6, François-Philippe Champagne, Canada's minister for innovation, science, and industry, confirmed that following a national security review, TikTok was instructed to wind up its Canadian business, but the application was available for Canadians otherwise.

His full statement can be read here.

The same was clarified by the spokesperson of the Canadian ministry of innovation, science and economic development in response to queries by Geo Fact Check.

"The government of Canada is not blocking Canadians' access to the TikTok application or their ability to create content. The decision to use a social media application or platform is a personal choice," the spokesperson stated, adding that the company is required to wind up the business activities it carries on in Canada.

"Following the wind-up, it will cease operations within the country. The government of Canada is taking action to address the specific national security risks related to the Canadian business activities carried on by TikTok Technology Canada, Inc., which engages in marketing, advertising, and content/creator development activities in relation to the use of the TikTok application in Canada," the email stated.

Media reports from outlets like Reuters, AP News, Forbes, and CBC also confirm that while TikTok’s business operations, including offices in Vancouver and Toronto, will be shut down, public access to the app remains unaffected.

It is noteworthy that TikTok plans to challenge this decision in court. Additionally, the Canadian government has banned TikTok from government-issued devices, citing privacy and security risks.

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