Egyptian MP calls for TikTok ban over ethics and security concerns

Egyptian MP Essam Diab has urged Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and Communications Minister Amr Talaat to ban TikTok, accusing the platform of undermining societal and family values. Diab described in a Facebook statement, the app as a source of “debauchery and obscenity” threatening Egyptian identity and ethics.

Diab, who submitted a formal briefing request, argued on Al Nahar TV that TikTok should be restricted until it is regulated to align with Egypt’s traditions. He raised concerns about national security risks and the substantial profits earned by TikTok creators through viral videos.

This proposal contrasts with earlier remarks by Ahmed Badawi, head of parliament’s Communications Committee, who in August dismissed plans for a ban. Instead, Badawi suggested the National Telecom Regulatory Authority could censor content violating social or religious norms, though he provided no specifics.

TikTok, ranked as Egypt’s third most-used social media platform, has around 37 million users nationwide, according to We Are Social. Under Egypt’s 2018 anti-cybercrime law, several TikTok creators, primarily women, have faced arrests for alleged “violations of family values.”

Globally, TikTok faces mounting scrutiny over privacy and security concerns. It operates in over 150 countries but is fully or partially banned in 19 nations, including India and Iran, with several Western countries restricting its use on government devices.