Because of security concerns linked to the popular app TikTok, State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley is recommending school systems remove access to the video-sharing application from publicly funded devices.
“National security experts are sounding the alarm relative to this platform, and we have to do everything we can to protect our kids and cybersecurity is the new area where we’re having to examine,” said Brumley.
Brumley sent a letter today to school systems advising them to remove access to TikTok or any other application developed by their parent company, which is based in China, ByteDance Limited. He said there’s just not enough known about the personal data the application is collecting and it’s best to safeguard students.
“And I am hopeful that school systems across the state will heed that advice and make sure that TikTok is removed as a communication tool,” said Brumley.
Last month the Division of Administration blocked TikTok traffic on networks operated by the state Office of Tech Services out of security concerns. Brumley said he wanted to raise awareness about those concerns among school systems.
“We believe this to be a credible concern. It’s a fairly simple fix to make sure it’s removed from our communication screens,” said Brumley.
Brumley also advised school co-curricular clubs, extracurricular organizations, and sports teams to stop using TikTok.
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