The media office of Communications Minister Johnny Qarm pointed out today, Wednesday, that "As social media buzzes with discussions and demands regarding the ban of the 'TikTok' application in Lebanon, following its use by a gang involved in extorting minors, the media office of the Minister of Communications confirms that any ban by the Ministry of Communications on any application, whether 'TikTok' or others, requires a judicial order in accordance with legal protocols.
Thus, the Ministry of Communications is an executive authority, and it will strictly enforce whatever decision is issued by the Lebanese judiciary regarding the ban or non-ban of any application, meaning that the Minister of Communications does not have individual authority to decide on the ban of any application."
The statement added: "The minister's media office informs that the ministry has the technical capability to stop and ban the 'TikTok' application at a high rate. Hence, should a judicial decision be taken in this regard, the ministry will implement this decision."
It continued: "On another note, and in the interest of the appropriate use of the internet, Minister Qarm's office emphasizes the necessity for parental supervision over their children and improving their relationship with them to build bridges of trust, which contributes to protecting their children from becoming victims of such crimes. There are also tools in all applications, including 'TikTok', that allow parents to manage their children's screen time and block inappropriate content. The management of 'TikTok' can provide appropriate training to guide parents on the application."
The statement concluded: "Moreover, according to the regulations of the mobile companies, Minister Qarm's office emphasizes the necessity for all SIM card holders to be over 18 years old, which makes any violations of Lebanese laws via digital channels subject to strict legal actions."
