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TikTok Removal Information

In recent weeks, UW System Administration, chancellors, and campus technology and communications leads have been in robust conversation about cybersecurity in general, and more specifically about the TikTok app. We have learned much about the very real risks to national, state and institutional cybersecurity – and just as importantly, the risks to our personal information security.

All UW campuses have been instructed to remove any installation of the TikTok application from university-owned devices by Friday, Feb. 17.

Complying with this expectation requires two efforts on our part:

    1. All colleagues who have TikTok installed on a university-owned device must uninstall the app by the end of the day Friday, Feb. 17. For assistance, contact the Tech Bar.
    2. In the near future, CTS will implement a technical solution which will block the future use and installation of TikTok on CTS managed devices.

    While we are only addressing university-owned devices with these actions, we urge everyone to learn more about the security risks in having the app installed on any device. This includes personal devices where we enter and view sensitive information, such as logins/passwords, and financial or medical information.

     If you use TikTok as a part of your work responsibilities and have any questions, please share them with University Relations – University.Relations@uwp.edu.

    Additional questions can be directed to Jordania Leon-Jordan, CIO or Kong Phang, Deputy CIO.

    Questions & Answers

    Why is the TikTok application being banned from university devices?

    The directive from President Rothman is a response to Gov. Evers’ executive order #184 and state lawmakers’ concerns about cybersecurity.

     

    When does the ban take effect?

    At the close of business on February 17, 2023.

     

    Does this mean that TikTok is banned from university networks?

    No. The directive only prohibits the management of TikTok using the app on System-owned and university-owned devices.

     

    Can I still manage a TikTok account on behalf of my department/unit/etc.?

    Yes. The UW System directive does not ban institutions from managing official accounts. The directive only prohibits the management of TikTok using the app on System-owned and university-owned devices.

     

    Can I still use my work computer, tablet or other work device to manage a TikTok account?

    Only if you use an internet browser. The directive prohibits the management of TikTok using the app on System-owned and university-owned devices.

     

    Can I advertise on TikTok?

    Yes. The UW System directive does not ban institutions from directly advertising on TikTok, or indirectly through a vendor. The directive only prohibits the management of TikTok using the app on System-owned and university-owned devices.

     

    What will happen next?

    UW System has convened a working group with representation from each university to review how institutions are using TikTok, and whether further restrictions should be implemented.


    Keywords:
    tiktok UW system administration removal cybersecurity security network application 
    Doc ID:
    124091
    Owned by:
    Linda W. in UW Parkside
    Created:
    2023-02-15
    Updated:
    2023-02-15
    Sites:
    UW Parkside
    Campus Technology Services