The TikTok app, which is the most downloaded in the world, has over 1 billion videos viewed every day. Even if you don't use it directly, you've probably heard or seen TikTok videos while surfing the internet. There are a lot of negative views about TikTok, but let's see how dangerous TikTok really is.

1. TikTok's Golden Age: Downloads and Popularity

Since 2020, TikTok has grown rapidly and is considered one of the most downloaded apps in the world. In India, TikTok has consistently ranked among the top download charts, demonstrating the app's immense popularity. Even after the Indian government banned TikTok, the app's popularity remains high, and other platforms are quickly emerging to replace it.

2. Personalized Experience: Unique Algorithm

TikTok's unique algorithm analyzes users' interests and behavior to deliver personalized videos. For example, it tracks the content users frequently watch and the videos they interact with, and uses this information to suggest the next video to watch. This process encourages users to spend more time on TikTok. The key point is that this user-oriented recommendation is made through algorithms.

3. The Allure of Infinite Scrolling: Concentration Problems and Memory Loss

TikTok's infinite scrolling continuously plays new videos as users scroll down the screen. This is a design element aimed at increasing viewing time, making users spend long hours on the app. This can lead to concentration problems and memory loss. In reality, scrolling for hours can lead to mental confusion, and in some cases, this can cause problems in academic or work settings.

4. Addiction and Mental Health Issues: Correlation with Dopamine Receptors in the Brain

Apps like TikTok can interact with the dopamine receptors in the brain, leading to addiction. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, and it can surge during app usage. This causes users to want to keep using TikTok and scroll through the screen for more dopamine. This addiction can lead to mental health problems like anxiety and depression, with a greater impact on children and adolescents.

5. Privacy and Security Issues: User Data Collection and Sharing

TikTok collects user information, which can be shared with advertisers and "trusted partners." TikTok collects information about users' devices, location, metadata, cookies, and more. This information is not sold to third parties, but concerns remain regarding user privacy. Some companies leverage TikTok to understand user preferences and habits, using this information for advertising.

6. Children and TikTok: Privacy Policy and Risks

TikTok has a privacy policy for children under 13, but it only applies to children living in the United States. Children exposed to TikTok's recommendation algorithm may encounter content that is not age-appropriate, which can have an inappropriate impact on children. TikTok has also been sued for allegedly collecting biometric data from minors without authorization, raising concerns about the protection of children's privacy.

7. Legal Aspects and Controversies: US and International Issues

TikTok is under scrutiny by the US government and international regulatory authorities. The US government claims that TikTok can access data of US users, raising concerns. European regulatory authorities have fined TikTok and are enforcing stricter regulations on user data protection. These legal controversies are important considerations for TikTok's future and user data protection.

8. TikTok Safety Tips: Protecting Yourself

To use TikTok safely, you can follow these tips. Users should minimize the personal information they provide and strengthen account security through settings. When posting, avoid sharing location/surrounding information and change your account from a public setting to a private setting to protect your personal information. Additionally, manage your friend list and limit app downloads to reduce your digital footprint. These measures will help strengthen your own protection.