GREENVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) — Gov. Roy Cooper signed an executive order Thursday prohibiting the use of certain phone apps and websites on state devices. This includes computers and mobile phones.
The order develops a 14-day policy that prohibits using TikTok, WeChat and other potential apps on state agency information technology systems in a manner that presents an unacceptable cybersecurity risk.
“This guidance is a step in the right direction,” said NC House Representative Jon Hardister. “I appreciate the governor’s office collaborating with us on this initiative. I look forward to our continued efforts to establish long-term plans to enhance our cyber security.”
Cybersecurity professionals have identified TikTok and WeChat as high-risk applications due to their lack of sufficient privacy controls and connections to countries that sponsor or support cyber-attacks against the United States.