टिकटॉक का अमेरिकी अस्तित्व: क्या भारत ने भी यही रास्ता अपनाया होता?

For Prelims, remember that the US pursued ownership changes and data security measures for TikTok, while India opted for a complete ban. This highlights differing approaches to national security concerns related to Chinese apps.

Understanding the contrasting approaches is important because it highlights the different ways countries balance national security concerns with economic interests and freedom of expression when dealing with foreign technology companies. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of each approach.

A complete ban offers stronger national security but can stifle economic opportunities and limit freedom of expression. Forcing ownership changes might balance these concerns but could be less effective in addressing underlying security risks.

The debate has roots in globalization and the rise of the digital economy. Initially, the focus was on the free flow of information, but concerns about national security, data privacy, and economic competitiveness led to stricter regulations.

TikTok's survival in the US, despite national security concerns, is in the news because it prompts questions about whether India could have taken a different approach when banning the app and other Chinese applications.

Recent developments indicate a growing trend towards digital protectionism, with countries like Russia, China, and the EU implementing or considering stricter regulations on cross-border data flows. The EU's GDPR has set a global benchmark for data privacy.