The Justice Department has released a memo indicating that federal employees can now safely download and use TikTok on their government-issued phones. This decision comes after previous concerns about the app’s data and national security risks led to its ban in 2022. The Office of Legal Counsel formalized earlier guidance, stating that the new version of TikTok does not pose these risks.
This memo marks a significant shift from earlier policy, which was put in place due to escalating worries over how TikTok’s data handling might affect national security. By clearing the app for usage, the government demonstrates confidence in the recent updates and changes made to TikTok.
The memo was dated July 20, 2026, and highlights extensive assessments and reviews undertaken to ensure the app complies with standards necessary for secure use on federal devices. This development is expected to affect numerous federal employees who use government phones for both professional and personal communication purposes.