- tech360.tv
Somalia bans TikTok, Telegram and online betting site
Updated: Jan 8
The communications minister of Somalia has ordered internet companies to stop the applications TikTok, Telegram and 1XBet, which terrorists and immoral groups allegedly use to spread horrific images and misinformation to the public, it was announced late on Sunday.
Members of the insurgent group al-Shabaab often post about their activities on TikTok and Telegram, according to the minister, Jama Hassan Khalif.
The decision comes just days after the Somali President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, said a military offensive against al-Shabaab aims to eliminate the al-Qaeda-linked group in the next five months. TikTok, Telegram and 1XBet did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Reuters.
The order gave internet service providers until 24 August to comply. 1XBet is popular in Somalia for betting, especially on football matches. TikTok has been threatened with bans in the United States over its alleged ties to the Chinese government. The state of Montana became the first to ban the app in May.
Somalia has banned TikTok, Telegram and 1XBet to limit indecent content and propaganda
Minister says terrorists and immoral groups use the apps to spread horrific images and misinformation
Al-Shabaab members often post activities on TikTok and Telegram
Comes after president said military offensive aims to eliminate al-Shabaab in 5 months
Source: REUTERS