Who Is Shou Chew? Meet the TikTok CEO Who Doesn't Let His Kids Use the App
Despite his role at TikTok, Chew has gained
attention recently for his personal views on the app. In a 2020 interview with
The New York Times, Chew revealed that he does not allow his own children to
use TikTok.
Chew cited concerns over privacy and the
potential for harmful content as reasons for his decision. "I'm just like
any other parent. I want to make sure that my kids are safe," he said.
"I think there are a lot of things that parents can do to protect their
kids, and one of them is to not let them use certain apps."
Chew's stance on TikTok is notable, given the
app's immense popularity among young people. According to a 2021 survey by Pew
Research Center, 48% of U.S. adults aged 18 to 29 say they use TikTok.
Despite his reservations about his own children
using the app, Chew has been an outspoken advocate for TikTok's safety and
privacy practices. In a 2020 blog post, he outlined the steps the company takes
to protect user data, including storing user information in the United States
and implementing strict controls to prevent unauthorized access.
Chew's leadership at TikTok has not been
without controversy, however. The app has faced criticism over its handling of
user data and its ties to the Chinese government, which owns TikTok's parent
company, ByteDance.
In 2019, the Federal Trade Commission fined
TikTok $5.7 million for violating children's privacy laws, and earlier this
year, President Biden signed an executive order calling for a review of
TikTok's potential national security risks.
Despite these challenges, TikTok continues to
be one of the most popular social media platforms in the world, with over 1
billion monthly active users. Chew's leadership will be key in ensuring that
the app remains a safe and responsible platform for users around the world.
As for his own children, Chew may not be alone
in his decision to limit their use of TikTok. A recent study by the National
Institute on Media and the Family found that nearly 70% of parents are
concerned about their children's use of social media, with many citing worries
over cyberbullying and exposure to inappropriate content.
Ultimately, Chew's decision to keep his own
children off TikTok underscores the importance of parental involvement in
monitoring their children's online activities. As social media continues to
play an increasingly central role in our lives, it's crucial that we remain
vigilant in protecting our privacy and ensuring that our online experiences are
safe and positive.
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