TikTok on the clock. With over 170 million users in the US, the short-video application has transcended its origins as a platform for dance trends to become a battleground for critical issues surrounding free expression and national security, all the while finding itself at the centre of a contentious legal battle. On Friday, the Supreme Court engaged in crucial deliberations over legislation that seeks to ban TikTok outright or force its parent company to divest from the platform. This is a dilemma that policymakers cannot afford to overlook. While some justices voiced concerns about potential violations of First Amendment rights, national security fears clearly dominate the conversation. For over five years, US officials have raised alarms about TikTok, now viewed as a potential disruptor that influences young minds and shapes sociopolitical narratives. This sentiment is echoed globally, with at least 20 countries taking action against TikTok’s impact. Last month alone, significant measures included hefty fines from Russia, the cancellation of presidential polls in Romania, and a year-long ban in Albania for noncompliance with local regulations. Such actions reveal a growing anxiety that unchecked access to TikTok poses a threat to societal norms and governmental oversight. As policymakers consider a ban, they must grasp the broader consequences of such a reckless move. An outright ban would drastically reshape how millions of Americans interact with information, express their creativity, and connect with each other. For many, TikTok represents a thriving community, not just an app. Moreover, the danger of setting a precedent for government overreach looms large, potentially encouraging similar actions against other platforms – noting the valid concerns voiced by the defence counsel during the proceedings. Rather than resorting to a hasty ban, lawmakers should adopt a rational and pragmatic approach focused on essential reforms. The priority must be the development of a comprehensive framework that ensures data privacy and security for other technology companies, regardless of their origin. Legislative measures must enhance transparency in data management practices, fostering trust between users and platforms. In this intricate landscape of technology, security, and free speech, a collaborative effort is imperative to protect both users’ rights and national interests. It is high time that those at the helm of the affairs engage in a decisive and thoughtful dialogue about the future of technology in America: one that champions innovation while steadfastly safeguarding our democratic values. *