Will using a VPN be banned for TikTok in the US due to RESTRICT Act? Here's what we know

We all are aware of the ongoing situation with the social media platform, TikTok. So far, it has faced several temporary or potential bans in various nations due to worries about user privacy and national security.

On its part, TikTok has implemented tighter content moderation guidelines and data security safeguards to allay these worries but to no avail.

And now, the US is on the verge of outright banning it. And the RESTRICT Act, a measure co-sponsored by senators Mark Warner (D-VA) and John Thune (R-SD), may result in the prohibition becoming effective.

Will the RESTRICT Act ban using VPNs for TikTok in the US?

Given the ambiguity of this legislation, some seem to be predicting that even using VPNs as a workaround to access services that are restricted in the US will result in people being penalized and getting up to 20 years in jail.

Restrict Act – it’s more than just a TikTok ban. Freedom of speech is at risk and there will be penalties if you use a VPN to get around any app ban. Contact your representatives!
Source

As a result, some people are curious as to whether they will still be able to use VPNs if TikTok is banned. Additionally, many are propagating fear by merely speculating on social media platforms (1,2,3).

imagine your homie got a 20 year sentence because they used a vpn to access tiktok….wild times ahead
Source

While the average murder charge is <8 years. So as per the RESTRICT ACT, using a VPN to watch some cringy videos on TikTok is a bigger crime than committing murder Source

But based on statements made by Sen. Mark Warner (the bill’s architect), it appears that none of this is true. They claim that the measure would not impose any restrictions on the use of VPNs.

Nonetheless, it’s still hard to say with absoluteness if TikTok will be operational or remain under a ban via VPNs in the US.

We know that things are quite tumultuous with the social media platform but promoting fear and mere suppositions will only create more panic.

As nothing is yet confirmed, we can only wait for the official response from the authorities. And when they do, we’ll be updating this space so make sure you stay tuned to PiunikaWeb.

Note: We have more such stories in our dedicated TikTok Section so be sure to follow them as well.

PiunikaWeb started as purely an investigative tech journalism website with main focus on ‘breaking’ or ‘exclusive’ news. In no time, our stories got picked up by the likes of Forbes, Foxnews, Gizmodo, TechCrunch, Engadget, The Verge, Macrumors, and many others. Want to know more about us? Head here.