Indonesia suspends TikTok’s operating registration over alleged data withholding

Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Informatics has temporarily suspended TikTok’s operational registration, alleging the platform did not fully comply with a government request for data related to livestreams, traffic and monetization during nationwide protests from 23–30 August.

What happened

• The ministry requested data on traffic, streaming activity and monetization (including digital gift values) amid concerns that accounts linked to online gambling profited from TikTok livestreams during the unrest.
• TikTok reportedly provided only partial data and cited internal policies for not supplying all requested details. The company has said it respects local laws and is working with authorities to resolve the issue.
• Authorities gave TikTok until 23 September to hand over the requested information; after the deadline the platform’s electronic registration was suspended. Officials gave no timeline for how long the suspension will last. Some outlets report TikTok remains accessible in Indonesia for now.

Context

The protests in late August were driven by anger over economic conditions, alleged police brutality and several government policies. Indonesia bans all forms of gambling, and the government cited worries that livestream monetization may have been exploited by gambling-related accounts during the unrest.

Why it matters

• TikTok has over 100 million users in Indonesia; actions by the government could affect millions of users and creators.
• This case highlights tensions between national regulatory demands for data access and platform policies designed to protect user privacy.

TikTok’s response

A TikTok spokesperson told news outlets the company respects the laws of the countries it operates in and is working with Indonesia’s digital ministry to find a resolution. TikTok also temporarily disabled its live feature during parts of the unrest to maintain safety on the platform.

Sources & further reading

• TRT World — Indonesia suspends TikTok licence over data dispute
• The Independent — Indonesia suspends TikTok licence after data row
• Mobile World Live — Indonesia suspends TikTok licence

What do you think — should governments be able to compel social platforms to hand over detailed data during times of unrest? Share your thoughts in the comments.