What’s Happening?

On December 7, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced a ban on the use of TikTok on any government-issued devices due to potential safety and cybersecurity risks, effective immediately. These devices included cell phones, laptops, desktop computers and other devices capable of internet connectivity.

Yesterday, the Texas A&M University Chancellor John Sharp announced that all campus networks will be added to the list of banned entry points to accessing TikTok, effective immediately.

What Does this Mean for You?

TikTok cannot be installed and/or accessed on any device using any campus network, regardless if the devices were purchased with state funds or it is personally owned.

Furthermore, at no time should any employee or student attempt to download TikTok on any state-issued computers, including classrooms and lab spaces.

To ensure Texas A&M University-San Antonio is fulfilling compliance with state law, Information Technology Services (ITS) will block access to TikTok on all A&M systems networks. Though not advised or endorsed by the University and ITS, if students and employees choose to keep TikTok on their personal devices, it is recommended to take measures to protect your account. Learn more about protecting your private account. 

Feedback

The ITS team is working hard to provide robust and reliable technology services to the campus community. ITS strives to meet or exceed the expectations of students, faculty and staff, and welcomes feedback on this maintenance activity or any other aspect of ITS services. Please send your feedback to ITSFeedback@tamusa.edu.

We will continue to provide updates as the issue evolves and information is made available.

William Griffenberg
Chief Information Officer