According to a programmer, based on what the source code contained, TikTok is effectively "legitimate spyware." Over and above the data that TikTok collects, the main contention has been that the app sends all this data to the company's head office in China.
Our quick research comparing WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal to help you decide which instant messaging app is best suited for your privacy needs.
South Africa's secret service has been collecting information and communications of South Africans without the necessary permissions. Such mass surveillance is probably unconstitutional and illegal.
The ViewFines leak, just like South Africa's largest data leak in 2017, highlights the importance of the country needing to have a fully functional Information Regulator who will be able to act on and enforce the countries Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).