I’ve actually read the law, so no one has to tell me that it really, actually is about privacy. I know that it is.
Lemmy users are just going to believe whatever they want to believe, instead of actually checking the facts.
It’s 100% about privacy. Data collection, and algorithm manipulation to sway what users see in the interest of the Chinese government. If users think Russian interference is a problem, we’ll this amounts to the same thing.
What about, say, giving users control or at least insight into what data is collected?
Again, it’s not about data being collected. It is about the algorithm that let’s them control what users see in their feeds.
If it was actually about privacy then the US would be introducing data transparency and control laws (which only kicks in here if TikTok doesn’t sell to a US company). Whether it’s the US wanting to stream their own bullshit to kids or just that sweet sweet ad revenue, this is in no way about privacy or “protecting the children”.
That’s a separate issue that could not be addressed with this kind of law anyway.
How so? If you’re concerned about propaganda, require every company operating within the US to show users exactly what data is collected and allow them to delete any or all of it as desired. Show users to the technical extent possible what data has connected them to suggested videos or ads. Put the power of users’ hands to understand and control how they are targeted.
If you just read the wiki article you linked as well, there is circumstantial evidence you’re just ignoring.