The popular social media platform TikTok is currently under investigation by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) over concerns relating to data and security practices. This scrutiny focuses on whether TikTok misled regulators by denying that individuals in China could access U.S. user data, as well as potential breaches of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act. The investigation is part of a wider series of challenges for TikTok, including a federal bill threatening a U.S. ban unless it dissociates from its Beijing-based parent company, ByteDance. The FTC’s investigation, which is nearing its conclusion, may lead to a settlement or, depending on the findings, a lawsuit handled by the Justice Department. This probe underscores the broader issues of data privacy and security that face social media companies.

In another development, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz has proposed an amendment to the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) Reauthorization bill that would provide airport police escorts for lawmakers facing threats. This proposal comes after Cruz faced significant criticism for his decision to fly to Cancún during a deadly cold snap in Texas. Despite the backlash, Cruz cites the importance of security for public figures. Critics argue that the proposal is self-serving, pointing to Cruz’s controversial trip to Cancún in 2021 as indicative of misplaced priorities. The proposed amendment aims to enhance security measures for lawmakers amid increasing threats, but it has also sparked debates on the use of taxpayer funds for such purposes and has become a point of contention in Cruz’s reelection campaign against challenger Colin Allred.