As the rule prohibiting TikTok goes into effect on Sunday, the social media site has ceased functioning for users in the United States and vanished from the Google and Apple app stores. The app, which is used by 170 million Americans, informed its users that the United States has passed a law outlawing TikTok. Regretfully, that means you are currently unable to use TikTok.

The message stated, "We are lucky because President Trump has stated that he will collaborate with us on a plan to revive TikTok once he takes office." "Please pay attention!" US President-elect Donald Trump stated that he would "most likely" grant TikTok a 90-day extension from the ban once he assumes office on Monday, ahead of his inauguration on January 20.

The disappearance aligns with recent actions by the US government, which has been pushing for stricter regulations on TikTok. Concerns over the app’s ties to its parent company, ByteDance, and potential data-sharing with the Chinese government have been cited as key issues. While TikTok has consistently denied these allegations, promising transparency and data localization, the scrutiny has persisted.

In a statement released shortly after the removal, TikTok expressed its disappointment, saying:“We remain committed to protecting the privacy and security of our users while providing an innovative platform for expression. We are working diligently to address the situation and hope to return to app stores soon.”

The removal of TikTok from app stores marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing saga between the app and US authorities. While existing users can continue to access the app for now, the lack of updates and potential restrictions loom large.

Legal experts believe the removal could be temporary, contingent on TikTok’s compliance with US regulatory demands. However, if tensions escalate, the possibility of a complete ban remains on the table.

The US crackdown on TikTok could set a precedent for other countries grappling with similar concerns. With over a billion active users globally, any disruption to TikTok’s operations could have far-reaching consequences for the social media landscape.