TikTok has been hit by a cyber-attack targeting brands and celebrities, including Paris Hilton and CNN.
According to TikTok, only a “very limited” number of accounts were compromised, and they are working with affected users to restore access.
Owned by Chinese company ByteDance, TikTok did not disclose specifics of the cyber-attack or its execution.
A spokesperson confirmed while Paris Hilton’s account was targeted, it was not compromised.
Hilton, a reality TV star with over 10 million followers, remains an active user on the platform.
However, CNN’s account was compromised.
TikTok said: “We have been collaborating closely with CNN to restore account access and implement enhanced security measures to safeguard their account moving forward.”
They emphasized their commitment to maintaining platform integrity and monitoring for further inauthentic activity.
CNN has not yet responded to requests for comment.
This incident comes as TikTok faces potential bans in the US unless its Chinese parent company sells it.
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Despite its global user base, TikTok has been scrutinized over user data security and its connections to the Beijing government.
The platform is also becoming a significant battleground in US politics.
Earlier this month, former President Donald Trump joined TikTok despite having previously attempted to ban it on national security grounds.
Since launching his account, Trump has gained over five million followers and intends to use the platform to communicate directly with the American public.
President Biden also used TikTok to campaign for re-election in November but has only garnered around 350,000 followers, significantly fewer than Trump.
