# Federal employees can reinstall TikTok on work devices US ban lifted as TikTok returns to government phones - **Source:** [TechCrunch](https://techcrunch.com) - **Published:** 2026-07-18 - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/0517c041-9403-4f11-b0de-c9c5efd6a5af ## Ban reversal The US Department of Justice announced federal employees can now reinstall TikTok on official devices. The 2022 ban was lifted due to new ownership structure led by Oracle. The app's security risks have been reassessed under the new framework. ## Ownership shift TikTok's US operations were transferred to a joint venture backed by Oracle, Silver Lake and MGX. ByteDance retains a 19.9% minority stake. This restructuring aims to address national security concerns about the popular video platform. ## Trump's involvement Former President Trump reportedly approved the decision for executive branch employees. Implementation will follow individual agency policies. The repeatedly delayed ban from Trump's term now becomes official policy. ## Security measures Oracle was designated as TikTok's security partner in the new structure. Strict oversight will be implemented for data security and user privacy. This move aims to alleviate concerns about Chinese-linked cybersecurity risks. ## Ban timeline The 2022 ban initially targeted federal devices before expanding nationwide. After brief removal, the app became accessible again through delays. The new decision formalizes TikTok's status on government devices. ## Industry impact The decision has significant implications for social media and tech sectors. Allowing TikTok's corporate use could enhance the platform's legitimacy. It may set precedent for similar decisions in other countries. ## Sources covering this story - https://techcrunch.com/2026/07/18/federal-employees-can-download-tiktok-on-their-work-phones-again/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._