This week, TikTok was in the news for pulling a video critical of China's mass detention of Uighurs. Most of the popular Chinese-owned social media app's users are children and teens who share lip-syncing videos, dance crazes and comedy skits. But in today's episode, Alex Hern, technology editor at the Guardian, explains why — behind the memes and music — th ... Show More
Nov 2023
The secret life of Chinese social media apps
Canada has banned the all-in-one Chinese social media app, WeChat, on government devices. Even though TikTok has received loads of attention for potential security risks, many security experts think that WeChat is riskier. James Clayton, our North America Tech Reporter, explains. ... Show More
15m 48s
Mar 2023
How TikTok Became a Matter of National Security
<p>TikTok, the app known for short videos of lip syncing, dancing and bread baking, is one of the most popular platforms in the country, used by one out of every three Americans.</p><p>In recent weeks, the Biden administration has threatened to ban it over concerns that it poses ... Show More
28m 50s
Dec 2021
The Censoring of Peng Shuai
<p>In November, Peng Shuai — one of China’s most popular tennis stars — took to Chinese social media to accuse Zhang Gaoli, who was a member of China’s seven-member ruling committee, of sexually assaulting her.</p><p>Within minutes, Chinese censors had taken down Ms. Peng’s post, ... Show More
27m 49s
Aug 2023
A Marriage, a Secret and a Crackdown in China
<p>Over the past decade, China has placed more and more restrictions on the lives of its citizens — tightening its hold over what people can do, read and say.</p><p>When Bei Zhenying’s husband was arrested and sentenced to seven years in prison for “smearing” the country’s politi ... Show More
40m 59s