TikTok’s potential U.S. ban stirs marketers, spurs contingency planning

U.S. lawmakers moved a step closer to banning the app after a vote on Wednesday in the House of Representatives. If ratified by the Senate, the bill would make it illegal to distribute or host TikTok in the U.S.

Click here to read the story at digiday.com.

Discussion Questions:

1. What does it mean to “ban” TikTok in the United States?
2. Why do U.S. lawmakers want to make it illegal to distribute or host TikTok videos in this country?
3. If the law is passed, what would then need to happen for TikTok to be available in the United States?
4. What ramifications would a TikTok ban in the U.S. have on marketers?
5. Have you ever seen an advertisement on TikTok?
6. What was being advertised?
7. Why do you think businesses and brands want to advertise on TikTok?
8. How might other social media platforms benefit if TikTok is banned in the United States?
9. According to this story, which social media platform would be the biggest beneficiary?
10. Why would they stand to benefit more than other social media platforms? Be prepared to discuss your answers in class.