Protecting Americans' Sensitive Data From Foreign Adversaries
United States Orders Reviews of Foreign-Controlled Connected Software Apps
What it does
Agencies must rescind prior TikTok and WeChat rules, and the Secretary of Commerce must assess and report on risks from foreign-controlled connected software applications.
Real-world impact
- Rescinds and halts enforcement of prior TikTok and WeChat restrictions and related policies.
- Requires new reports and threat and vulnerability assessments to protect personal and genetic data.
- Gives Commerce ongoing authority to evaluate app transactions and act under Executive Order 13873.
Topics
Summary
This order directs the federal government to address risks from connected software applications tied to foreign adversaries. It revokes earlier orders addressing TikTok and WeChat, directs agencies to rescind related rules and abolish related entities, and tasks the Secretary of Commerce with assessing risks and recommending protections for sensitive U.S. data, including personal health and genetic information.
The order requires threat and vulnerability assessments from intelligence and homeland security officials and gives Commerce ongoing authority to evaluate app transactions and act to protect national security.
Questions, answered
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