FBI Director Christopher Wray and Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines Discuss China’s Potential to Use TikTok to Control Data and Shape Public Opinion at Senate Intelligence Committee Hearing

The United States and China have been at odds in recent months, with Chinese President Xi Jinping issuing sharp criticism of the U.S. However, according to Avril Haines, the director of national intelligence, Beijing still believes it benefits most by preventing a spiraling of tensions and preserving stability in its relationship with the United States.

At a hearing of the Senate Intelligence Committee on Wednesday, Haines said the most fundamental piece that cuts across every one of the risks and threats mentioned is the difference between the private sector and public sector, which is nonexistent in China. She added that the Chinese government could use TikTok to control data on millions of people and shape public opinion in the event of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan.

FBI Director Christopher Wray also spoke at the hearing, saying that the Chinese government could use TikTok to control data on millions of people and shape public opinion should China invade Taiwan. He added that the FBI is concerned about the potential for the Chinese government to use the app to gain access to the personal information of millions of Americans.

The hearing was held to discuss the potential risks posed by China, and the U.S. intelligence community’s assessment of the situation. While tensions between the two countries remain high, Haines said that Beijing still believes it benefits from a more stable relationship with Washington, even as it seeks to bolster its global economic and military power.