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TikTok’s service providers still risk billions in penalties for bringing it back online

There are only a few ways to ensure their protection.

TikTok began coming back online in the US mid-day Sunday, suggesting its service provider Oracle might be relying on Trump’s assurance on Truth Social that he’d delay the ban, though the company has not confirmed or commented. Rozenshtein says the move could invite shareholder lawsuits — something that Senate Intelligence Committee Chair Tom Cotton (R-AR) warned of, even though Trump encouraged service providers to bring TikTok back online in time for his inauguration. If TikTok’s service providers really want legal cover, then short of a true qualified divestiture — which would take time to hash out, if China even agrees to sell the app — their best option is Congress.

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