If you’re a fan of TikTok, you might have noticed something’s amiss lately. As of now, the popular social media platform is officially inaccessible within the U.S. borders due to a law that has come into effect. When users attempt to log in, they’re met with a disappointing message stating, “Sorry, TikTok isn't available right now.” The message further explains, “A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the U.S. Unfortunately, that means you can't use TikTok for now.” However, it offers a glimmer of hope, mentioning that President Trump has expressed willingness to work on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office. Until then, users can still retrieve their data.

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In its final bid, TikTok appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court, but the court unanimously dismissed the appeal. Despite acknowledging that many apps gather vast amounts of user data for analysis, the court deemed TikTok a potential risk. Their ruling stated, “There is no doubt that, for more than 170 million Americans, TikTok offers a distinctive and expansive outlet for expression, means of engagement, and source of community.” However, they emphasized that Congress had acted based on substantial national security concerns related to TikTok’s data collection practices and its ties to a foreign adversary. Consequently, the court concluded that the ban does not infringe on First Amendment rights.

TikTok remains hopeful that former President Trump will help restore the app after his term ends on January 20. Although there’s been no definitive statement, he told NBC News in an interview on January 18 that he would likely delay the ban by 90 days. This extension aims to provide enough time for a U.S.-based buyer—or an ally—to acquire the app. Unfortunately, no such deal has materialized, leading to the current restrictions. In the meantime, other apps linked to TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, such as CapCut, Lemon8, and Marvel Snap, have also been taken offline.