Paris Hilton among users targeted by TikTok hack

TikTok says it is dealing with a cyberattack that targeted brands and celebrities including Paris Hilton and CNN.

However, the video-sharing app told the BBC that a “very limited” number of accounts had been compromised.

It said it was working with users to restore access to their accounts.

TikTok, owned by Chinese company Bytedance, did not share further details about the cyberattack, such as how it was carried out.

A TikTok spokesman said Ms Hilton’s account had been targeted but was not compromised.

The reality TV star, who has over 10 million followers on TikTok, is an active user of the platform.

However, the account of news broadcaster CNN has been tampered with.

“We are working closely with CNN to restore access to the account and implement enhanced security measures to protect their account,” TikTok said.

“We are committed to maintaining the integrity of the platform and will continue to monitor for any further inauthentic activity.”

CNN did not immediately respond to the BBC’s request for comment.

The news comes at a time when TikTok faces a ban in the US unless it is sold by its Chinese parent company.

TikTok has millions of users worldwide but has faced questions over the security of users’ data and its ties to the Beijing government.

It is also emerging as a new social media battleground for the US elections.

earlier this month, Donald Trump joins TikTokHowever, during his presidency he attempted to ban it on grounds of national security.

Trump, who has gained more than five million followers since launching his account on Saturday, said he would use “every means available to speak directly to the American people.”

President Joe Biden is also using the platform to campaign for re-election in November, but he has only 350,000 followers — far fewer than his opponent.