Ninja Quits TikTok, Slams the Social Media App for Stealing Private Data
It looks like Tyler 'Ninja' Blevins isn't only just leaving Mixer behind, as the superstar [...]
It looks like Tyler "Ninja" Blevins isn't only just leaving Mixer behind, as the superstar streamer and Fortnite talent declared that he has deleted TikTok and will no longer utilize the social media platform. Ninja cited privacy concerns as the company has faced increasing scrutiny over personal data being breached. Ninja is not the only person levying these criticisms at TikTok, but Ninja issued a strong statement on Twitter that has left his followers with different reactions.
It's not clear at this time whether or not Jessica Blevins also plans to delete her TikTok account, as well. Jessica is Ninja's manager and wife, and the streamer has frequently appeared in her TikTok videos. In May, Jessica posted a video on TikTok in which she tricked her husband into drinking straight vodka during a livestream. For fans of both Jessica and Ninja, the videos have provided an interesting window into their lives outside of streaming, so some might be disappointed to see the couple distance themselves from the platform.
Of course, concerns over TikTok's data collection have been well-documented over the last few months. While concerns about the practices of a number of social apps have been growing over the last few years, the allegations against TikTok seem to be far more substantial than most. Last month, Apple reported that the TikTok app has been spying on the clipboards of iPhone users. While TikTok has admitted to the allegations, the company has given differing reasons for why it was happening in the first place.
I have deleted the TIK TOK app off all my devices. Hopefully a less intrusive company (data farming) that isn’t owned by China can recreate the concept legally, such funny and amazing content on the app from influencers.
— Ninja (@Ninja) July 9, 2020
Ninja's decision could lead to others deciding to ditch TikTok, as well. Ninja has a significant number of followers, and it's possible that his influence could lead to more users leaving, as well. With so many citing concerns with the service, it will be interesting to see what happens next with the platform.
Do you use TikTok? Are you concerned about the app's data collection? Let us know in the comments or share directly on Twitter at @Marcdachamp to talk all things gaming!