TikTok's New US Data Policy Raises Privacy Concerns Amid Joint Venture with Oracle

TikTok's recent data policy changes in the US, under a joint venture with Oracle and other investors, have sparked privacy concerns. The deal enables TikTok to significantly expand its data collection, including precise location data and AI interactions, prompting immediate privacy worries.

The new policy mandates the collection of more detailed user information, such as metadata from AI interactions. This move follows a long saga that almost led to a US ban of the app in January 2025 due to concerns over data security and potential manipulation by the Chinese government.

The joint venture with Oracle and key investors aims to address these concerns by ensuring the security of US user data and enhancing privacy and cybersecurity measures. The deal, finalized in late January 2026, involves a consortium led by Larry Ellison, with Byted retaining a minor stake.

Users are left awaiting app updates that will introduce new choices regarding data access and AI activity.