The United States is worried about the security risks posed by Chinese-owned social media app TikTok. Lawmakers are considering measures to restrict or ban the popular app. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said her department is hiring people to monitor and investigate companies that may pose a security risk to American networks and data. She also said that the department has put over 200 Chinese companies on a list of entities that pose a threat.
The Biden administration is working to address national security concerns related to foreign companies handling Americans’ data. At a Senate hearing, Raimondo said her department is hiring a team to monitor, investigate, and enforce security measures. The department is also working to secure communication and technology networks.
Recently, Biden administration agencies briefed senators on foreign adversaries exploiting Americans’ data from social media platforms, data brokers, and other companies. Around 20 senators attended the briefing, which was organized by the Commerce Committee.
Senators Mark Warner and John Thune, along with 24 other senators, proposed the Restrict Act to grant the Commerce Department new authority to review or block transactions involving foreign companies that pose national security risks. Raimondo supports the bill, but critics say it hurts civil liberties.
The Commerce Department issued an order aimed at addressing security concerns posed by China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, and Venezuela in 2021.
