Wisconsin gov bans Chinese-owned TikTok app on state phones

MADISON, Wis. Wisconsin on Thursday became the latest state to ban the use of TikTok on state phones and other devices, a move that comes amid a push for a federal ban and after nearly half of the states nationwide have blocked the popular, Chinese-owned social media app.

Democratic Gov. Tony Evers ordered the ban after he said he consulted with the FBI and emergency management officials. He cited potential risks to privacy, safety and security. Evers order applies to most state agencies, with some exceptions like criminal investigators who may be using the app to track certain people.

Defending our states technology and cybersecurity infrastructure and protecting digital privacy will continue to be a top priority, Evers tweeted when he announced the ban.

The University of Wisconsin System, which employs 40,000 faculty and staff, is also exempt. A spokesperson for the system did not immediately return a message seeking comment on whether it would institute its own ban.

UW has numerous official TikTok accounts like one for the women's volleyball team, which has more than 41,000 followers. Universities often use TikTok accounts as a recruiting tool to connect with high school students.