What happens to TikTok on my phone if the app gets banned?

If the law takes effect on January 19, new users in the U.S. will not be able to download TikTok from app stores like Apple’s and Google’s.

source: Google 

People who already have TikTok installed will still be able to use the app temporarily, but it may stop working over time.

source: Google 

In the worst-case scenario, TikTok would go dark for U.S. users, and they would receive a notice saying the service is unavailable in their country.

source: Google 

Similar bans in other countries have resulted in users losing access to banned apps, and experts predict this might be the case in the U.S. as well.

source: Google 

Even if TikTok doesn't become entirely inaccessible, its performance could degrade over time due to the lack of updates, security patches, and new features.

source: Google 

Over time, TikTok users may experience slower performance and security vulnerabilities, eventually leading to the app becoming obsolete in the U.S.

source: Google 

Although the ban doesn’t target individual users, people in the U.S. could potentially use VPNs to access TikTok, making it appear as though they are accessing it from another country.

source: Google 

Some free VPN services could compromise users’ privacy by selling their data or installing malware on devices, so experts advise caution when choosing a VPN.

source: Google 

More sophisticated VPN services that can bypass the ban may require more time, money, and technical know-how, which could be a challenge for average users.

source: Google 

While VPNs might allow users to access TikTok, the process could involve significant risks and may not be as straightforward as many Americans are accustomed to with unrestricted internet access.

source: Google