Video app TikTok has today stopped live streaming and uploading new videos in Russia. It does so because of the new Russian law on ‘fake news’.
“We have no choice but to suspend live streaming and new video uploads while we assess the impact of this law, ” TikTok said . Russian users of the app can still send each other instant messages.
1/ TikTok is an outlet for creativity and entertainment that can provide a source of relief and human connection during a time of war when people are facing immense tragedy and isolation. However, the safety of our employees and our users remain our highest priority.
— TikTokComms (@TikTokComms) March 6, 2022
The decision by TikTok, which is part of the Chinese company ByteDance, comes after the new legislation allows Russian authorities to impose long prison terms on people who spread “fake news” about the Russian army or call for sanctions against Russia.
“Our top priority is the safety of our employees and our users, ” TikTok said . The company says it will “continue to evaluate the changing conditions in Russia”.
On Friday, Russia blocked access to Facebook . It has also significantly slowed down the operation of Twitter and YouTube in the country, making those services difficult to use. Media regulator Roskomnadzor announced on Sunday that it will limit access to the chat app Zello.
Facebook parent company Meta, Google and Snap have since stopped selling ads in Russia.