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#TikTokBan draws hilarious responses about TikTok stars moving back with their parents after US bans downloads

As per reports, while users who have already downloaded the apps TikTok and WeChat may be able to continue using the software, the restrictions mean updated versions of the apps cannot be downloaded

The Commerce Department reportedly said on Friday, September 18, that it plans to restrict access to TikTok and WeChat on Sunday, September 20. The Department said that as of Sunday, any moves to distribute or maintain WeChat or TikTok on an app store will be prohibited. While users who have already downloaded the apps may be able to continue using the software, the restrictions mean updated versions of the apps cannot be downloaded.

"The only real change as of Sunday night will be [TikTok users] won't have access to improved apps, updated apps, upgraded apps or maintenance," said Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross.

"Today's actions prove once again that President Trump will do everything in his power to guarantee our national security and protect Americans from the threats of the Chinese Communist Party," said Ross. "At the President's direction, we have taken significant action to combat China's malicious collection of American citizens' personal data, while promoting our national values, democratic rules-based norms, and aggressive enforcement of U.S. laws and regulations."

The restrictions on WeChat are more extensive. Starting Sunday, it will be illegal to host or transfer internet traffic associated with WeChat, the Department said in a release. The same will be true for TikTok as of November 12, it said. 

TikTok said in a statement that it disagreed with and was disappointed by the administration's announcement. "Our community of 100 million US users love TikTok because it's a home for entertainment, self-expression, and connection," the statement read, "and we're committed to protecting their privacy and safety as we continue working to bring joy to families and meaningful careers to those who create on our platform."

In earlier court filings, the US government suggested that the restrictions on TikTok and WeChat would be limited in scope and not aimed at harming consumers or TikTok's US employees. TikTok employees will still be able to receive salaries and benefits and to do their day jobs.

On social media, the news resulted in some serious discussions about Trump’s policies, data privacy, foreign policy, and more. But it also spawned a variety of hilarious reactions from TikTok users. One Twitter user shared a video and wrote, “How McDonald’s will look once TikTok gets banned.” Another Twitter user shared a reaction video and wrote, “Premium VPNs going to their board meeting after seeing the TikTok ban.” Another Twitter user said, “yall really think yall about to tell me what i can and cannot have on MY phone?? #tiktokban.”

But a bulk of jokes came at the expense of quote-unquote TikTok Stars. One Twitter user wrote, along with a video, “TikTokers moving back in with their parents after they can't afford the Hype House anymore #tiktokban.” Another wrote, “'Hey mom, it's me, TikTok got banned so we can't afford to live in the Hype House anymore. I'm sorry for saying that I didn't need you and that I was on my grind, anyway, can I come back home? Love you.' #tiktokban.” Another Twitter user said, “The Hype House and Sway Boys come Sunday when TikTok gets banned #TikTok #tiktokban.”

The jokes about TikTok stars moving back into their parents' house were just about the most common one there was. One Twitter user wrote with a GIF, “TikTok stars when they have to move back in with their parents #tiktokban.” Another Twitter user shared a reaction video with, “TikTok stars filling out their McDonald’s application #tiktokban.”