TikTok Users Freak Out Over App’s ‘Immigration Status’ Collection — Here’s What It Means
TikTok’s mention of “immigration status” in its privacy policy caused panic—but it’s not what users think. Here’s what’s really happening.
Matilda
TikTok Users Freak Out Over App’s ‘Immigration Status’ Collection — Here’s What It Means
TikTok Immigration Status Data Sparks Outrage — Here’s the Truth TikTok users across the U.S. are sounding alarms after an in-app notification highlighted a clause in the platform’s updated privacy policy mentioning the collection of “citizenship or immigration status.” The language, appearing alongside other sensitive categories like sexual orientation and health data, has triggered widespread fear—especially amid heightened political tensions around data privacy and foreign ownership. But here’s what most viral posts aren’t saying: this wording isn’t new, and it doesn’t mean TikTok is actively harvesting your immigration details. Credit: Jaap Arriens/NurPhoto / Getty Images In fact, the clause exists primarily to comply with U.S. state privacy laws—not to surveil users. Understanding why it’s there, how it’s used, and whether it poses any real risk requires unpacking both legal obligations and digital transparency norms in 2026. Why TikTok’s Privacy Policy Mentions Immigration Status At …
