TikTok has returned online after a mysterious 14-hour blackout, leaving users scratching their heads and questioning what’s going on behind the scenes. Upon logging back into the app, many were greeted with an unexpected message thanking Donald Trump—a strange gesture, considering Trump is no longer president and lacks any current political authority. This cryptic message has led to speculation that TikTok might be signaling a willingness to align with Trump’s ideologies, further fueling confusion among its user base.
In agreement with our service providers, TikTok is in the process of restoring service. We thank President Trump for providing the necessary clarity and assurance to our service providers that they will face no penalties providing TikTok to over 170 million Americans and allowing over 7 million small businesses to thrive.
It’s a strong stand for the First Amendment and against arbitrary censorship. We will work with President Trump on a long-term solution that keeps TikTok in the United States.
However, it’s not just the message that has raised eyebrows. Several noticeable changes to the app have left TikTokers even more perplexed. The first change users observed was the ability to link their TikTok accounts to Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram—a move that many hadn’t seen coming. Additionally, TikTok is now offering verified accounts, a feature previously unavailable before the app was banned in some countries.
More curious still, users began noticing sponsored Facebook ads appearing on TikTok, blurring the lines between the two platforms. On top of that, many users believed CEO to TikTok, Shou Zi Chew bio page on the app, his official title name ‘CEO’ vanished from his profile page. This sparked speculation about potential shifts in leadership or corporate direction. However, a closer look at his bio page prior to the ban revealed that the ‘CEO’, title name was never present. This indicates that no alterations have actually been made to his TikTok profile.
Rumors have also begun circulating that the blackout was caused by a potential collaboration between TikTok and Meta, sparking speculation that TikTok may now be under Meta’s ownership. While this theory has gained traction among some users, there has been no official confirmation to support it as of yet.
Another unproven conspiracy was that, major social media platforms, from X (formerly Twitter) to Meta and possibly even TikTok, are shifting towards promoting right-wing ideologies, casting aside diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, and fueling the unchecked spread of misinformation. A prime example of this trend is CEO Elon Musk, who promised to champion free speech on X but has since manipulated the platform’s algorithm to amplify chaotic, right-wing content. This move has prompted many users to abandon X in favor of platforms like Blue Sky.
Meanwhile, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has stirred controversy with his recent public appearances, showcasing expensive jewelry and fresh bangs, while advocating for a return to “masculine energy” and encouraging corporations to embrace aggression. These developments have left many questioning the future direction of social media and its role in shaping public discourse.
As the situation continues to unfold, TikTok users are left to speculate and stay alert. One thing is clear—this blackout has introduced more questions than answers. Whether this marks a new chapter in TikTok’s future or a temporary glitch remains to be seen. For now, users are advised to remain mindful as the mystery continues.
