TikTok officially suspended its app operations in the United States on Sunday as a law banning the platform took effect. The app, which boasts over 170 million monthly users across the country, now faces strict restrictions under the legislation signed by President Joe Biden in April 2024.

The new law prohibits new downloads of TikTok from platforms like Apple’s App Store and Google Play, and it also deems it illegal to update the app. While existing users may retain the app on their devices, they will no longer receive updates or enhancements, rendering the platform stagnant.

TikTok’s parent company, Beijing-based ByteDance, has been at the center of controversy as U.S. lawmakers express concerns over national security. Critics argue that TikTok could act as a tool for espionage, citing Chinese laws that require companies to share user data with the Chinese government if requested.

To continue operating in the U.S., ByteDance would be required to divest its American operations, a move that has not yet materialized.

This development marks a significant turning point in the ongoing scrutiny of TikTok’s operations and highlights growing tensions between the U.S. and China over data privacy and security concerns.