Paris Hilton Among Targets in Recent TikTok Cyber-Attack
TikTok is currently addressing a cyber-attack that has compromised the accounts of several high-profile brands and celebrities, including Paris Hilton and CNN. The video-sharing platform, owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, confirmed to the BBC that a “very limited” number of accounts were affected.
TikTok is collaborating with the impacted users to restore their account access and enhance security measures. While Paris Hilton’s account was targeted in the attack, it was not compromised. Hilton, a reality TV star with over 10 million followers on TikTok, remains an active user of the platform.
Conversely, CNN’s account was compromised. TikTok stated, “We have been collaborating closely with CNN to restore account access and implement enhanced security measures to safeguard their account moving forward. We are dedicated to maintaining the integrity of the platform and will continue to monitor for any further inauthentic activity.”
This cyber-attack occurs amid ongoing scrutiny of TikTok in the United States, where the platform faces a potential ban unless sold by its Chinese parent company. Despite its global user base, TikTok has been under fire for data security concerns and its connections to the Chinese government. The platform has also emerged as a key battleground for the upcoming US elections.
Earlier this month, former President Donald Trump, who previously attempted to ban TikTok on national security grounds, joined the platform. Since launching his account, Trump has gained over five million followers, using TikTok as a means to communicate directly with the American public. In comparison, President Joe Biden, who is also using TikTok to campaign for re-election, has garnered approximately 350,000 followers.
As TikTok navigates these challenges, the company remains vigilant in maintaining the platform’s security and integrity.
