TikTok Limits State-Affiliated Media Influence Amid Election Year, Pro-Trump Content Surges

May 23, 2024, 01:15 PM

TikTok is implementing new measures to limit the reach of state-affiliated media accounts as it seeks to counter foreign influence during a key election year. The social media platform is targeting covert influence operations and state-backed misinformation accounts, particularly those from Russian and Chinese outlets. Additionally, TikTok's internal analysis has revealed a significant increase in pro-Trump content compared to pro-Biden content since November, highlighting the platform's role in fostering MAGA activity. The company has disrupted 15 influence operations from January to April 2024 and is restricting state-media accounts from appearing in users' main feeds outside their home countries. This move comes amid concerns that TikTok could be used as a propaganda tool and follows legislation signed by President Biden that could force a sale of the platform by its Chinese owner or lead to a ban in the US. TikTok is also broadening its efforts to foster authenticity ahead of the elections.