Opinion
TikTok Could Be More Dangerous Than You Think
TikTok Could Be More Dangerous: The massive interest surrounding Elon Musk‘s acquisition of Twitter is based upon an intuition that I believe is correct: major social media platforms are essential to modern life in some hard-to-describe way. You might call them town squares. Some might call them infrastructure. They serve as a medium between public service and private enterprise. Despite the fact that they are too significant to be entrusted to billionaires and businesses, governments may not be able to handle them. The question of their ownership and governance has yet to be satisfactorily addressed. Nevertheless, certain arrangements raise significantly more concerns than others. Musk’s fate may well be worse than others.
Our current understanding of TikTok dates from only a few years ago. Nevertheless, the growth of the platform is unprecedented. The platform had more active users than Twitter, more US watch minutes than YouTube, more app downloads than Facebook, and more website visits than Google in 2021. There was a time when Twitter was limited to 140-character updates about lunch orders, and Facebook was only available to elite universities, but now it is best known for viral dance trends. Times have changed. Or maybe they have already changed. During a lecture I gave a few weeks ago at a Presbyterian college in South Carolina, I asked some of the students where they got their news. Nearly all of them replied TikTok.
Chinese company ByteDance owns TikTok. In addition, the Chinese government is susceptible to the whims and whims of its companies. On this point, there can be no ambiguity: The Chinese Communist Party has spent much of the last year reducing its technology sector. Jack Ma, the market-leading founder of Alibaba, was cited as an example. As it was clearly communicated: Chief executives will act in accordance with party wishes or face the prospect of their lives being upended and their companies being dismantled.
President Donald Trump signed an executive order in August 2020 that directed TikTok to sell itself to an American firm or be banned in the United States. When Oracle and Walmart emerged as the most likely buyers, ByteDance was seeking a buyer, but after Joe Biden’s election, the sale was indefinitely postponed.
With Biden’s executive order, Trump’s sloppy executive order, which was being successfully challenged in court, was replaced. According to Biden’s order, apps like TikTok are able to access and capture a significant amount of personal and business information from users, including US persons’ personal information. A foreign adversary could gain access to that information through this data collection.”
Data espionage is what we should call this problem. User data is collected by apps like TikTok. Governments abroad may find this data valuable. TikTok was banned from soldiers’ work phones by the Army and Navy because of this, and Senator Josh Hawley wrote a bill banning the app on all government devices.
The company has come up with a plan: “Project Texas,” which would host customer data on U.S. servers and somehow restrict access for its parent company. In fact, BuzzFeed News’ Emily Baker-White reports in an excellent report that “Project Texas appears to be largely a geographic exercise, one that seems well-positioned to address concerns about Chinese officials accessing Americans’ private information. Moreover, it fails to address other ways China could weaponize the platform. This includes adjusting the algorithm of TikTok to increase exposure to divisive content or creating an environment for disinformation campaigns.
This is known as the manipulation problem. TikTok isn’t really in control of our data. Users decide what to watch and create. What’s at issue is the opaque algorithm that dictates which posts are visible and which aren’t.
TikTok has been flooded with videos that support the Russian narrative regarding the war in Ukraine. An apparent coordinated campaign of 186 Russian TikTok celebrities, such as pranksters and beauty bloggers, was tracked by Media Matters. In addition, China is widely known for amplifying Russian propaganda. Is it okay for us not to know whether the Chinese Communist Party decided to influence how the algorithm treats these videos? In five years, when TikTok is even more embedded in American culture, and the company has more freedom to operate as it pleases, how comfortable will we be with a similar situation?
As in 2020 (not to mention 2000), the United States would have contested presidential elections. Could the Chinese Communist Party insist that content favouring that candidate be given a nudge from ByteDance if one of the candidates was more friendly to Chinese interests? Or maybe TikTok begins serving up more election conspiracy videos at a time when the country is on the verge of disintegration. This is in order to weaken America rather than shape its outcome.
There is nothing out of the ordinary about any of this. The Chinese government instructed TikTok to clamp down on videos and topics, though the company says these rules have changed since then. There is no doubt that other countries, such as Russia, use American social networks in order to cause divisions and doubt.
This is telling: China views these threats as obvious enough to have built a defensive firewall against them: They have banned Google, Facebook, Twitter, as well as TikTok. In order to manage Douyin, a version of ByteDance’s app that adhered to Chinese censorship rules, ByteDance has developed a different version for Chinese audiences. The Chinese government has long viewed these platforms as an offensive weapon. It is not an unreasonable assumption that China would do to us what they have always feared we would do to them. This is because China’s authoritarian turn continues and relations between our countries deteriorate.
The closest analogy I can think of is that the Soviet Union during the Brezhnev era would have bought up television stations across the United States with some of its oil export profits, my former colleague Matthew Yglesias wrote in his newsletter, Slow Boring.
That’s a good beginning, from an analogy perspective. Nevertheless, if the Soviet Union had purchased local television stations nationwide, we would have known about it, and we would have known what they were and what they were doing, just as there was with Russia Today. Propaganda would be simply perceived as propaganda.
The billion TikTok users don’t think they are watching a propaganda operation run by the Chinese government because, for the most part, they aren’t. They watch lip sync videos, makeup tutorials, and funny dance videos. That would, however, make it a more powerful propaganda tool if it were used. Moreover, since every TikTok feed is unique, we have no way of knowing what people are seeing. Using it to shape or distort public opinion could be trivially easy, and unavoidably untraceable.
I am suggesting, though it will not be simple to apply, a simple principle: We need to pay attention collectively. Our future is largely determined by whoever controls our attention (or whatever). Social media platforms should be managed in the public interest as they hold and shape our attention. In other words, we need to have a good sense of how they’re run and who’s behind them.
To my knowledge, none of the social network owners currently meet this requirement. ByteDance I’m fairly certain does not. The Trump administration acted correctly, and the Biden administration should follow his lead.
Since the beginning of the Rohingya crisis, Myanmar has been shirking responsibility. Ever since the ethnic cleansing of the Rohingya population, victims of genocide have been pouring into Bangladesh.
The Rohingya, who have been living in Rakhine state for almost a thousand years, have falsely been propagated as Bangladeshi infiltrators. Ignoring that, Bangladesh has given shelter to the Rohingyas for humanitarian reasons. But despite all this, Myanmar wants to get into a conflict with Bangladesh.
Provocations from Myanmar’s end
Bangladesh has been showing humanity vis-à-vis Myanmar’s brutality and extremism for decades. The international community is trying to deal with the crisis law-abidingly. However, Myanmar is trying to provoke Bangladesh in some ways that are not acceptable. As the Myanmar junta has acted with impunity in the past, it is again showing the audacity to violate international norms.
Early in the Rohingya crisis, Myanmar staged several border provocations. Bangladesh felt the heat of escalating clashes in the bordering regions for a couple of months, with the sound of gunfights keeping the locals in bordering areas awake at night. The Myanmar authorities fired mortar shells and dispatched helicopters inside Bangladesh. Even two people were killed in February after mortar shells reportedly fired from Myanmar landed and exploded on Bangladesh’s side.
Again, the Myanmar army placed landmines one after another in the border areas, which violates border norms. The military has also repeatedly violated Bangladesh’s airspace. By creating pressure, the Tatmadaw (military) hoped the remaining Rohingya in Myanmar would go to Bangladesh or elsewhere. The junta also expected to incite Bangladesh to join its war on the rebels, which would further increase the persecution of Rohingya. But Bangladesh faced the situation with patience.
Recently, there was a firing from Myanmar on a vessel coming from Saint Martin’s Island on June 5. The trawler was damaged, but there were no casualties. Since then, the transport of goods and passengers from Teknaf to Saint Martin’s Island has come to a halt. There have been at least three incidents of gunfire during this period. With apprehensions of a food shortage on the island, the government arranged for a ship to carry food products by sea to the island. Even in this challenging situation, the Bangladesh Security Force is dealing with the situation with utmost patience.
As relations between the two countries are now chilly, Bangladesh should find a peaceful and diplomatic solution to the tension it is currently experiencing at the border with Myanmar. A good beginning could be fostering military diplomacy with Myanmar, not receiving any war provocations. However, Bangladesh is determined with its no-conflict policy in the Bay of Bengal region and peaceful coexistence with neighboring countries.
Won’t react to provocation: Bangladesh Army chief
Amid these growing skirmishes between the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army across the border, the new army chief of Bangladesh, General Waker-uz-Zaman, said that his forces would not step into any provocation. He said, “Bangladesh is on the right track so far without stepping into Myanmar’s trap. Solutions should be sought in all other ways than engaging in conflict.”
Additionally, Bangladesh’s new army chief has emphasized “defense diplomacy” as key to resolving the Myanmar border crisis, saying there was no possibility of conflict between the two militaries. He also warned, “We do not want to see any provocation. We do not have any issues with Myanmar apart from the Rohingya issue. We want them to take back the Rohingya. Aside from that, I do not see we have any hatred or problem towards them.”
Bangladesh is concerned about border tensions. So far, security has been strengthened in the bordering areas of Myanmar, and local police and coast guard have also been put on alert. The government should also consider keeping the armed forces ready and the navy on heightened alert should things go beyond control on the other side of the border while also being cautious.
Way Forward
From its very beginning, the Rohingya crisis has been Myanmar’s creation, and it’s ultimately up to Myanmar to solve it. However, due to the laxity of the international community, Myanmar’s woes continue to grow. At this point, Bangladesh should increase the pressure on Naypyidaw through more engagement with China, India, and other member states of this region. Bangladesh has done the right thing by engaging with China and asking for its intervention to diffuse the tensions as a key party with influence over the ruling Myanmar junta.
At the same time, the Bangladesh government should proceed with caution in sending back Myanmar’s border and security force members and warning the border guards to demonstrate the highest restraint, as it should not look like we are taking a side in this conflict of others. So far, Bangladesh has made the right moves, disarming the fleeing security personnel and opening communication channels to discuss their return to Myanmar.
Bangladesh does not harbor enmity toward any country, neighboring or otherwise, as per its foreign policy. This is in keeping with the prime minister’s declaration that Bangladesh does not want war over the Myanmar issue; instead, it wants a peaceful solution. Bangladesh could consider forming a joint coordination cell with representatives from home, foreign affairs, and defense ministries, and national security and foreign policy experts to closely monitor the fast-evolving situation in Rakhine and recommend coordinated measures to protect our national interests.
Bangladesh will not engage in war under any provocation. But it is also necessary that Myanmar bullets should stay within their borders. Bangladesh’s military and national strength are not visible to the Myanmar forces, so they were unaware of it. But in the face of escalations, where Myanmar border guards themselves fled to Bangladesh, they realized the capacity of our military strength.
However, Bangladesh should make every effort to solve the problem peacefully. Bangladesh has already summoned Myanmar’s ambassador many times. It focuses on diplomacy rather than showing military strength. But, if necessary, Bangladesh has the capability and power to react to any provocations, and our neighbor knows it, too.
By Arafat Islam
Arafat Islam Joy is a DHAKA-based researcher and freelance columnist.
Contemplating a coast-to-coast move? Discover if relocating from California to New York aligns with your lifestyle and goals in our in-depth guide.
Over 4 million people move across the U.S. each year. Moving from California to New York takes you over 2,800 miles. It’s more than just a change of scene. You face big changes in weather, laws, and culture too. For cross country movers, the journey involves meticulous planning and preparation. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or a fresh start, understanding the challenges and how to tackle them can make your move smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate your cross country move successfully.
Moving from California to New York needs a detailed plan. You have to think about when and how to move. Getting help from experts like California New York Express Movers can make things easier. This way, adjusting to new weather, laws, and culture is smoother.
Do you dream of New York’s busy life or job opportunities? This guide will make your California to New York move easier. It helps you understand what to expect and get ready for big changes.
California to New York: Is It the Right Move for You?
Moving from California to New York means comparing two very different ways of life. On one hand, California’s laid-back vibe and endless beaches. On the other, New York’s vibrancy and the rush of The Big Apple. It’s not just about changing where you live. It’s a chance to shape your personal and work life in new ways.
The move east comes with big changes. The culture, how fast things move, and even the weather are all different. Californians enjoy sunshine year-round, while New Yorkers experience all the seasons.
Finding career growth is a key thing to think about. New York is full of job opportunities, especially in finance. This compares to California, which focuses more on tech jobs. Moving could open doors for your professional future.
Living in California compared to New York is a big shift too. From spacious suburbs out west to the city’s towering buildings out east. Your daily life and friends could change too. The east coast is known for its fast pace and many chances to meet people and engage in culture.
In the end, choosing to move means considering your life preferences and career goals carefully. Moving from California to New York is a major life shift. It comes with its own set of hurdles and chances to evolve.
Advantages of Relocating from California to New York
Moving from California to New York brings many benefits. It opens up new job chances and a vibrant cultural scene. You’ll find many different ways to live, suited to different tastes.
Thriving Job Market
New York’s job scene is like no other. It’s a hotspot for finance, fashion, health services, and more. With so many different industries, finding a job that fits your skills is easier.
Cultural and Entertainment Opportunities
New York is known for its rich culture and fun activities. You can see Broadway shows, visit top museums, and enjoy all kinds of food. The city’s lively vibe and varied events keep life exciting.
Diverse Lifestyle and Activities
New York’s lifestyle is diverse, offering something for everyone. You can experience the beauty of all four seasons. Whether it’s beaches in summer or skiing in the winter, there’s always something to do.
Moving to New York from California is a big step but a rewarding one. The change from California’s sunny days to New York’s four seasons offers a new way of living. Below is a comparison to help you see the differences between both states:
| Factors | California | New York |
| Job Market | Technology, Entertainment | Finance, Arts, Health Services |
| Cultural Opportunities | Hollywood, Silicon Valley | Broadway, Museums, Music |
| Climate | Mild, Mostly Sunny | Four Distinct Seasons |
| Common Activities | Beach, Hiking | Theater, Outdoor Sports |
Challenges and Considerations for Moving from California to New York
Moving from the West Coast to the East Coast brings many challenges and things to think about. People moving from Los Angeles to New York need to know the big changes they’re in for. This includes costs, weather, and how you get around.
Cost of Living Differences
New York living costs a lot more than California, especially in big cities like LA and NYC. You’ll see big differences in housing prices, taxes, and daily expenses. Knowing these costs is key to planning your move from California to New York.
| City | Average Rent (1-Bedroom Apartment) | Cost of Living Index | Average Annual Salary |
| Los Angeles | $2,300 | 176.2 | $70,000 |
| New York City | $3,500 | 214.7 | $85,000 |
Weather and Climate Adjustments
The weather in New York is different from California. New York has all four seasons. This big change will affect your daily plans, especially in the winter. Making preparations is really important.
Transportation and Commute Times
Getting around is different in New York compared to California. In California, cars are a big deal. But in New York, there’s a huge and easy-to-use public transportation system. This change is both challenging and helpful for new New York residents.
These factors are important to think about for anyone moving to New York. Being prepared and understanding these differences can make your move a great experience. It’s all about planning and knowing what to expect.
Cost Breakdown: Moving Expenses from California to New York
Moving across the country costs a significant amount. It’s important to know where your money will go. By understanding various costs, you can plan your budget carefully.
Moving Company Fees
Moving company fees are a big part of the cost. These costs change with the distance and how much you move. If you choose a full-service moving company, it might cost more. But they take care of almost everything, from packing to unloading your stuff.
Packing and Shipping Costs
Getting your stuff from California to New York also costs a lot. You’ll need to buy packing materials like boxes and bubble wrap. Then, you might need to pay for storage if your new place isn’t ready right away. It’s smart to get quotes from different services to save money.
Travel and Accommodation Expenses
Don’t forget about your own travel and where you’ll stay. This means thinking about the cost of flying or driving, food, and hotels along the way. Make sure to add these expenses to your budget. Having good travel insurance is also a great idea for any unexpected situations.
Breaking down the moving costs from California to New York helps you plan better. Smart decisions now can make your move a lot easier.
Packing and Preparation Tips for a Cross-Country Move
Getting ready for a cross-country move has a few key steps. Start by getting rid of stuff you don’t need. This makes your move lighter and more tidy. Plus, it helps to pack well and cuts down on costs.
It’s important to use your space wisely when packing. Try using vacuum bags for clothes. This cuts down on space. For breakable things, pack them really well. Put lots of cushion around them to keep them safe. Also, mark your boxes clearly. Write what’s inside and where they should go. This makes it easy to unpack when you reach your new place in New York.
Make a checklist to stay organized. It should cover all you need for moving from California to New York. This list makes your move easier and stress-free. If packing seems like too much, think about hiring professionals. They know how to protect your stuff and make sure it’s packed right.
Always plan ahead for a move to go well. These California to New York moving tips and packing ideas are here to guide you. They’ll make sure your move is smooth and well-organized.
Finding the Right Neighborhood in New York
Choosing the right neighborhood in New York is key to a smooth transition from California. You might be drawn to the city’s energy or prefer the quiet of the suburbs. It’s crucial to explore various options to find what suits you best.
Factors to Consider
When picking a neighborhood in New York, think about different things. This includes:
- Commute Times: Evaluating how far you’ll have to travel to work or other important places is important.
- Community Amenities: Look into the availability of parks, schools, hospitals, and fun places to go.
- Safety: It’s wise to check out the crime rates and safety steps taken by the community.
Popular Cities and Suburbs
New York has many areas that suit various lifestyles. Some top choices include:
- Buffalo: It’s known for being affordable and having a friendly community. Great for those on a budget.
- Jackson Heights, Queens: This area offers the best of city and suburban life. It’s culturally diverse and close to Manhattan.
- Westchester County: Perfect for a quiet suburban life yet just a short trip from the city’s excitement.
- Rochester: Balances city life with a strong community feel, making it great for families and professionals.
Choosing the right neighborhood can really improve your moving experience, be it alone or with family. By weighing your options, you’ll find a spot that meets your needs. This makes your California to New York moving guide very helpful.
Adapting to the New York Lifestyle
Moving from California to the East Coast means getting used to the New York lifestyle. It’s all about the high energy, swift pace, and diverse culture. To fit in well, learning to keep up with New York’s rhythm is key.
Embracing the Fast-Paced Environment
Getting comfortable with New York’s quick tempo is important. Taking part in local activities makes you feel like you belong. The city is always buzzing with life. At first, it can be a lot, but soon you may find it thrilling.
Exploring Local Culture and Cuisine
Discovering New York’s culture means exploring its many flavors and places. You can enjoy everything from Broadway to delicious street foods. Embracing these unique experiences can help you become a part of the vibrant city.
Conclusion
Moving from California to New York is more than a simple relocation. It’s a jump into a new way of life that offers growth in both personal and professional areas. It requires careful planning and a mindset that’s open to change.
To make a long distance move a success, one must understand and adjust to new cultures, climates, and economies. This includes financial planning, logistical skills, and embracing New York City’s diverse opportunities. Companies like California New York Express Movers can make this transition smoother.
Leaving California brings challenges, but also the chance for a richer life in a highly vibrant state. Those moving to New York can expect to mix with different cultures, advance in their careers, and enjoy varied lifestyles. This shift starts a thrilling new phase, packed with chances and excitement, enhancing the move across the U.S.
SEE ALSO: The Upcoming Release of the Jeffrey Epstein List Sparks Immense Fear
In a digital age of misinformation, news consumers seek a reliable beacon for factual reporting. Bill O’Reilly’s name emerges prominently in this quest for accurate information. It’s not merely his reputation but the trust he embodies in the tumultuous realm of news dissemination.
Amidst the landscape of today’s media, characterized by fast-paced content and evolving narratives, Bill O’Reilly stands as a pivotal figure known for his unwavering commitment to delivering “No Spin News” with resilience and precision.
His ability to cut through the noise and provide a seamless narrative has garnered a following seeking the truth in a sea of uncertainty.
As individuals seek trustworthy sources, O’Reilly’s approach resonates with those craving substantive journalism over sensationalism.
Through his straightforward communication style and forceful delivery, he has positioned himself as a game-changer in the news industry, leveraging his platform to offer a unique perspective that many find compelling.
Bill O’Reilly: A Magnet for News Seekers
Bill O’Reilly has cemented himself as a go-to figure for individuals seeking factual information, drawing news seekers with his extensive background in journalism and reputation for delivering reliable content.
Bill O’Reilly’s journey in journalism spans decades, during which he has honed his skills as a proficient communicator and analyst of current events.
With his experience hosting popular shows like “The O’Reilly Factor,” he developed a reputation for thorough research and in-depth coverage.
O’Reilly’s no-nonsense approach and dedication to presenting the facts have resonated with audiences, solidifying his credibility in news reporting.
An example of O’Reilly’s commitment to accuracy is his coverage of significant events, such as presidential elections and national crises.
His ability to break down complex issues into digestible segments has helped viewers better understand the world around them.
By proactively addressing vital topics, O’Reilly has built a loyal following of news seekers who value his insightful commentary and attention to detail.
Controversies and Criticisms
While O’Reilly has earned a loyal audience, he has been subject to controversies and criticisms throughout his career.
Some have raised concerns about his reporting methods and conduct, leading to public scrutiny of his behaviour. It is essential to acknowledge that no individual is immune to scrutiny, and O’Reilly’s public image has faced its fair share of challenges.
Critics have pointed to instances where O’Reilly’s remarks or actions have sparked debates and disagreements within the media landscape.
These controversies, whether related to editorial decisions or personal interactions, have underscored the importance of upholding journalistic integrity and ethical standards in the fast-paced world of news reporting.
While controversies may have shadowed aspects of O’Reilly’s career, his resilience and dedication to his craft remain key pillars of his work.
Bill O’Reilly’s ability to attract news seekers stems from his established credibility in journalism, dedication to factual reporting, and capacity to engage viewers on a wide range of topics.
Despite criticisms and controversies, O’Reilly remains a prominent figure in the media landscape, offering news seekers a blend of informed analysis and incisive commentary.
The Influence of Bill O’Reilly’s Reporting on News Seekers
Bill O’Reilly, known for his impactful reporting style, has left a lasting mark on the media landscape, influencing news consumption patterns and shaping the perception of news consumers. Let’s delve into his profound influence through his factual reporting.
His commitment to presenting facts clearly and concisely has instilled trust in his audience, leading to a loyal following. This trust elevates O’Reilly’s credibility and has broader implications for the media’s overall trustworthiness.
By setting a standard for factual reporting, O’Reilly has raised the bar for journalistic integrity, encouraging viewers to seek reliable news sources and scrutinize information more critically. His influence extends beyond individual stories to the fabric of media ethics, shaping how audiences engage with news content.
Legacy and Future Prospects
As we reflect on Bill O’Reilly’s legacy in the context of modern journalism, his impact remains palpable. The legacy he leaves behind is a testament to the power of rigorous reporting and unwavering dedication to presenting the truth.
Despite challenges and controversies, O’Reilly’s contributions to the media sphere are undeniable, sparking conversations and setting a precedent for quality journalism. The prospects of his influence on news-seeking behaviour are intriguing. While his direct presence in traditional media may have shifted, the ripple effects of his reporting style continue to resonate with audiences.
As news consumption patterns evolve, O’Reilly’s legacy is a cornerstone of journalistic integrity, paving the way for a more discerning and informed audience.
Bill O’Reilly’s reporting style has shaped the media landscape and influenced how the public consumes news. His commitment to factual reporting and dedication to presenting information clearly and concisely have set a standard for journalistic integrity.
As audiences navigate a complex media environment, O’Reilly’s legacy remains a guiding light, inspiring a new era of informed news consumers.
CTN News trusts Bill O’Reilly as a reliable source of information. His straightforward approach and no-nonsense style resonate with viewers seeking honest reporting.
O’Reilly’s commentary cuts through the noise, delivering news in a digestible format that keeps audiences engaged.
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