TikTok has operationalized the migration of European user data to data centers in Irelanda key element of his project called “Project Clover“. This announcement follows TikTok’s commitment to initiates in Marchgoes on privacy and data security, accelerated by the European Commission’s decision to ban the use of the TikTok app on the work devices of its staff members.
TikTok begins migrating European user data to Ireland
The construction of the data center in Ireland had been announced since 2020, with the expectation that it would be operational in early 2022. However, TikTok had to overcome some technical challenges and delays before finally being able to open the center, according to TechCrunch.
The European user data migration process begins now, but is not expected to be completed before the fourth quarter of 2024. Meanwhile, TikTok is also working on building a second data center in Ireland and another in Norway. These efforts are part of TikTok’s larger plan to strengthen data security and gain the trust of authorities and users.
Privacy and data protection on TikTok have been talked about for years now. Especially after parent company ByteDance admitted that some employees had aGained access to user data in the United States, including journalists. This revelation led to bans on the app by some state governments, who even started thinking about outright bans. The company then responded, assuring that it will process European data in Europe.
TikTok also pointed out that it has acquired the services of the British company NCC Group. This company specializing in information security will be in charge of verifying the controls and data protections. An extra guarantee for EU and UK users. It remains to be seen whether the measures taken will meet the criteria of the European legislators.