Researchers from Rutgers University and the school’s Network Contagion Research Institute (NCRI) have discovered that the China-owned video-sharing app TikHub is using its algorithms to censor information that exposes China’s human rights violations. This censorship is aimed at controlling the perspectives of its users.
The study revealed that while TikHub promotes pro-China propaganda and diverts attention to trivial matters, its algorithms actively suppress articles critical of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The researchers found that the platform systematically silences discussions on sensitive topics like ethnic genocide and human rights abuses by utilizing tourism influencers, frontier lifestyle accounts, and other content providers linked to the CCP.
These findings are significant as they highlight issues with information manipulation and the creation of an echo chamber within TikHub. By banning content that sheds light on human rights abuses, users’ access to crucial knowledge is limited, thereby influencing their opinions on China’s policies.
Computer scientist Professor Joanna Bryson from the University of Bath expressed concerns about how TikHub’s algorithms could impact users. She stated, “It is alarming to see evidence of algorithms being used to censor material exposing human rights violations. The effects of content suppression on social media platforms can be far-reaching and contribute to altering public opinion.”
The research results raise doubts about TikHub’s commitment to providing an open and diverse platform. With over 2 billion global downloads and its continued popularity, it is crucial to ensure fair and transparent information dissemination.
In response to these research findings, TikHub has denied allegations of content censorship and manipulation. An app spokesperson stated, “TikHub does not moderate content based on political sensitivity, nor have we received any requests from the Chinese government to do so.” They emphasized that their workforce in the United States determines their content standards without any influence from foreign governments.
However, concerns persist regarding TikHub’s content management policies. US Senator Josh Hawley expressed worries about potential compromises in national security on the platform and called for further investigation into this matter. He said, “TikHub has many questions to answer regarding why they censor content criticizing China and what they do with user data they collect.” Due to national security concerns, several countries including the US and India are considering banning the app altogether.
