Premier vows precision in tackling TikTok misinformation

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Premier Chen Chien-jen emphasized Friday (Jan. 19) that the government will handle issues with TikTok with precision, in response to a query regarding further restrictions on the platform.

He stated during an interview that the government will obtain and scrutinize potential misinformation on these social platforms to boost public literacy.

Chen assured that legal sanctions would be imposed on any actions related to spreading false information.

The announcement comes on the heels of the Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau's (MJIB) establishment Thursday (Jan. 18) of the Cognitive Warfare Research Center. Critics, however, express concern over potential infringements on freedom of speech.

Pointing to the app's use in advancing cognitive warfare efforts in some countries, Chen said TikTok has, with caution, been placed under stricter government scrutiny. In alignment with other nations, Taiwan has banned the use of TikTok in government sectors since 2020.

Chen argued autocratic nations often exploit democratic societies' free speech to influence their elections via social media.

Reiterating Taiwan's status as a free, democratic country ruled by law, the premier stressed the government's responsibility to protect freedom of speech.

He further indicated that spreading false or misinformation posed threats to people's reputation, health, and privacy, besides jeopardizing societal stability and national security. He urged democracies worldwide to respond to this issue with appropriate caution.