TikTok Now Collects Even More User Data After US Take Over

TikTok is already notorious for collecting a vast amount of user data, but it may get even worse soon.

TikTok users in the United States were prompted to accept new terms of service and a revised privacy policy when opening the app, according to a report by Wired. Users were required to agree to the changes before continuing to use the platform.

The update follows TikTok’s transition to a new ownership structure designed to comply with US government requirements. The app is now operated by a new entity called TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC, which is controlled by a group of American-based investors that includes Oracle.

New US Ownership

The ownership transition was mandated by the US government, which required TikTok to move away from Chinese control to continue operating domestically. While the approval prompt allows users to quickly resume scrolling, Wired noted that many users may not fully understand the scope of the policy changes.

Location Data Collection

One of the most significant updates involves location data collection. Previously, TikTok did not collect precise GPS-based location data from US users. Under the new policy, if users grant permission through their device’s location services, TikTok may now collect detailed information about their exact location.

Wired reported that similar levels of location tracking are already common on other platforms such as Instagram and X.

AI Interactions Now Logged

The revised privacy policy also introduces a new section covering interactions with TikTok’s AI tools. According to the report, the platform may now collect and store user prompts, AI-generated responses, and related metadata from those interactions.

This represents a newly defined category of data collection rather than a revision of existing policy language.

More Targeted Ads

Another change affects how TikTok may use collected data for advertising. The updated policy allows TikTok to leverage user information not only to personalize ads within the app but also to deliver targeted advertising across other websites and platforms.

The policy also explicitly names publishers as data partners, indicating that TikTok may exchange information with external parties to support advertising and data acquisition efforts.

User Still Unaware

Wired noted that while the changes are legally disclosed, they may not be immediately obvious to users who quickly accept the updated terms. TikTok has not issued a separate in-app explanation summarizing how the policy changes affect user data practices.

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