Somalia Implements Ban on TikTok, Telegram Over 'Horrific' Content and Misinformation

Somalia has banned popular social media platforms TikTok and Telegram, as well as online-betting website 1XBet, in an effort to curb the spread of indecent content and propaganda. The country's communications minister stated that these applications are being used by terrorists and immoral groups to disseminate horrific images and misinformation. The ban comes as Somalia intensifies its military offensive against insurgent group al Shabaab, with the aim of eliminating the al Qaeda-linked organization within the next five months. Internet service providers have until August 24 to comply with the order.