Biden revokes WeChat and TikTok ban, but orders security review

US Commerce Department to reassess all apps connected to 'adversaries'

U.S. President Joe Biden has ordered the Commerce Department to use "rigorous, evidence-based analysis" to screen foreign apps that may pose security risks. His predecessor Donald Trump sought to ban China's WeChat and TikToko. © Reuters

YIFAN YU, Nikkei staff writer

June 9, 2021 23:49 JST

Updated on June 10, 2021 05:35 JST

PALO ALTO, U.S. -- U.S. President Joe Biden on Wednesday withdrew a series of executive orders that sought to ban new downloads of WeChat and TikTok and ordered a broad security review of apps connected to "foreign adversaries," including China.

"Certain countries, including the People's Republic of China ... seek to leverage digital technologies and Americans' data in ways that present unacceptable national security risks while advancing authoritarian controls and interests," the administration said in a statement.