UH Expands TikTok Restrictions to Include Campus Wi-Fi Network

The University of Houston System has declared an extension of its TikTok ban, forbidding the app's usage and download on the campus Wi-Fi network beginning January 3. This measure builds upon a previous restriction that prohibited employees from utilizing TikTok on devices owned by the university.

The action is in accordance with Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s 2022 directive aimed at limiting specific technologies due to worries regarding data security. Abbott emphasized that TikTok is owned by ByteDance, a Chinese firm that is required by law to comply with possible government data requests. In accordance with regulations, UH has also prohibited additional applications considered risky by the Texas Department of Institutional Resources, including WeChat.

University officials communicated to the campus community that access to TikTok is prohibited for students, faculty, and staff on any device linked to the UH Wi-Fi network. Devices that have TikTok installed can continue to access the platform as long as they are not connected to university networks.

Employees engaging in university business on personal devices are required to uninstall TikTok or any other restricted applications prior to usage. A comprehensive scan of 15,000 devices conducted in 2022 identified just six occurrences of TikTok being installed, indicating prompt adherence to state directives.

This expansion also demonstrates Abbott’s wider appeal for Texas state agencies and public institutions to withdraw from “risky investments” associated with China. The university is committed to maintaining state-mandated security measures and offering clear guidance to its community.

For additional details, UH officials suggest consulting the campus policy regarding prohibited technology.

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