TikTok is transferring European users’ data to its new data center in Ireland, a move associated with its Project Clover initiative.
This move towards enhancing data privacy and security was unveiled in March. It followed the European Commission’s decision to restrict staff from using TikTok on work devices.
Despite earlier announcements in 2020 that the data center would be functional by early 2022, unforeseen challenges delayed its opening.
Data transfer is in progress and will conclude by the end of 2024. Additionally, two more centers—one in Ireland and another in Norway—are being developed.
Amid growing concerns over its data practices, TikTok is striving to rebuild trust with regulatory authorities.
In 2022, concerns escalated when TikTok’s parent firm, ByteDance, disclosed unauthorized access to some US users’ data. The step led to staff dismissals and further bans on the app.
To fortify its data safeguards, the app has also partnered with UK-based NCC Group.
This company will oversee TikTok’s data management, ensuring stringent measures and reporting any discrepancies.
TikTok aims to strictly regulate access to user data, ensuring only authorized personnel can access sensitive information.
Last month, media outlets reported that New York is banning TikTok from city-owned devices and called on agencies to remove the app within the next 30 days.
It came after a review by the NYC Cyber Command, in which a city official found that TikTok “posed a security threat to the city’s technical networks.”
City employees are barred from downloading or using the app and accessing TikTok’s website from any city-owned devices.
“While social media is great at connecting New Yorkers with one another and the city, we have to ensure we are always using these platforms in a secure manner,” a New York City Hall spokesperson said.
The source added: “NYC Cyber Command regularly explores and advances proactive measures to keep New Yorkers’ data safe.”
