Following a recent cyberattack, TikTok says it has taken steps to protect several high-profile accounts, including those of news network CNN and reality TV star Paris Hilton.

A spokesperson for the popular short video app confirmed earlier this week that immediate action was taken to restore account access and fortify security protocols for the affected users.

We have been collaborating closely with CNN to restore account access and implement enhanced security measures to safeguard their account moving forward,” TikTok’s spokesperson stated.

Although the number of compromised accounts is reportedly minimal, TikTok has emphasised how it is working hard with impacted account owners to ensure access is restored and additional security measures are in place.

TikTok, owned by Chinese tech giant ByteDance, is also grappling with a significant legal challenge; the company is contesting a law that mandates the sale of TikTok by January next year or the prospect of a ban within the United States. It’s a measure supported by the White House which has expressed deep concerns over national security due to the platform. 

TikTok has steadfastly maintained that it does not share US user data with the Chinese government and that it has implemented rigorous measures to safeguard user privacy. Despite these assurances, the platform’s security practices continue to be scrutinised.

The timing of the cyberattack coincides with heightened political tensions surrounding TikTok. As the platform becomes a crucial tool in the upcoming US elections, prominent figures such as former President Donald Trump and current President Joe Biden are leveraging TikTok to reach voters.

Trump, who previously attempted to ban the app on national security grounds, has gained over five million followers since joining the platform. In contrast, Biden’s follower count stands at around 350,000.

Know the risks

TikTok’s navigation of legal battles and security concerns underscores the growing importance of robust cybersecurity measures in the digital age, particularly for platforms that host significant levels of sensitive data in the age of AI.

The issues are explored to depth this October at #RISK London, where industry leaders debate strategies that businesses should employ to galvanise online defences while meeting evolving regulatory standards.

 

#RISK London 2024

We’re excited to share that #RISK is back in London for its third consecutive year, ready to equip attendees like you with the knowledge, insights, and connections crucial for navigating today’s dynamic risk landscape.

#RISK London 2024, ExCel

#RISK London 2024, 9-10 October, ExCel - GRC. AI. Privacy. Security. RegTech

Key #RISK London sessions include:

Securing the Future: The Evolving Threat Landscape and Cybersecurity Strategies

Location: PrivSec Theatre

This session will provide insights into the ever-changing cybersecurity threat landscape, focusing on emerging threats like ransomware attacks, supply chain vulnerabilities, and cloud security challenges.

Experts will discuss best practices for cybersecurity defence, including incident response planning, security awareness training, and leveraging security technology solutions.

The Evolving Regulatory Landscape: Staying Compliant in a Complex World

Location: Risk Theatre

This session provides insights into the rapidly evolving regulatory landscape impacting risk management practices.

Experts will discuss regulations like GDPR, CCPA, and DORA, outlining their implications for businesses and providing strategies for achieving compliance.

These are just two of the exclusive sessions taking place at #RISK London this October

Click here to see the full agenda

Discover more at #RISK London

Taking place October 9 and 10 at London’s ExCel, #RISK London brings high-profile subject-matter experts together for a series of keynotes, engaging panel debates and presentations across four separate theatres:

• GRC Theatre

• RegTech Theatre

• PrivSec Theatre

• Risk Theatre 

Each theatre is dedicated to examining the challenges and opportunities that businesses face in times of unprecedented change.

By breaking down silos and aligning systems and workflows, organisations can streamline decision-making, improve efficiencies, and enhance the customer experience.

Attendees will be able to learn how to mitigate risks, reduce compliance breaches, and drive performance.

“#RISK is such an important event as it looks at the broad perspective. Risks are now more interconnected and the risk environment is bigger than ever before.”Michael Rasmussen, GRC Analyst & Pundit, GRC 20/20 Research

Click here to register for #RISK London today!