China uses influencers to spread Misinformation in Taiwan via social media platforms, such as TikTok and YouTube, to create suspicion and sabotage Taiwan-US relations. But a government official said yesterday that it is difficult for the government to appoint an agency to regulate online activities.

Su Tseng Chang bans TikTok

To prevent the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from spreading disinformation and endangering national security, the Cabinet called for cross-ministerial meetings late last year, but such meetings have yet to take place due to the Cabinet reshuffle this year, a government official said on condition of anonymity.

The Cabinet led by previous Premier Su Tseng-chang banned the use of the Chinese version of TikTok, Douyin, on government devices, but there has been no more debate on other means to fight risks since the Cabinet reshuffle in January, according to an official.

The issue concerns free speech regulation and content management; therefore, the government must exercise extreme caution, according to the official, who added that the EU has begun blocking TikTok on government devices.

TikTok is completely banned in India

TikTok has been completely prohibited in India; however, short films made on TikTok can still be shared on other streaming platforms. According to an official, if the government wishes to ban certain content, it must carefully assess if it will be successful.

Why is it taking so long to Monitor TikTok in Taiwan?

They stated that Taiwan is still evaluating the problem, citing other countries’ procedures. A government authority monitors radio and television broadcast content, but with the draft “digital intermediary service act” stalled, no government authority monitors online activity, according to the official.

When asked if the Ministry of Digital Affairs could take over management of the issue, the official stated that the Information and Communication Security Management Act and the Personal Data Protection Act cover the operations of several ministries, making it difficult for only one agency to regulate online activity.

According to the Mainland Affairs Council, China uses “united front” tactics, cognitive warfare, and infiltration to divide Taiwanese society and damage the relationship between Taiwan and like-minded countries.

To prevent external forces from infiltrating Taiwan, the government will continue to seek public feedback on whether to amend the Anti-Infiltration Act to require social media influencers to disclose the source of their funding, according to the council, adding that such action could help maintain national security and social stability.