TikTok has taken a major step toward securing its future in the United States with the official establishment of TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC, a new majority American-owned entity created in compliance with the Executive Order signed by President Donald Trump on September 25, 2025.
The move ensures that more than 200 million American users and 7.5 million U.S. businesses can continue to create, discover, and grow on TikTok, while addressing longstanding national security and data privacy concerns raised by U.S. regulators.
The Joint Venture introduces a comprehensive framework designed to protect U.S. user data, secure TikTok’s recommendation algorithm, and strengthen trust and safety policies — all while maintaining TikTok’s global interoperability for creators and businesses.
A New Security-First Mandate
TikTok USDS Joint Venture’s core mission is to safeguard U.S. user data, applications, and algorithms through a robust data privacy and cybersecurity program. Built on the existing TikTok U.S. Data Security (USDS) organization, the new entity will operate independently under clearly defined national security safeguards.
U.S. user data will be stored and protected exclusively within Oracle’s secure U.S.-based cloud infrastructure. The Joint Venture’s cybersecurity and data protection framework will undergo regular audits and certifications by third-party cybersecurity experts and adhere to leading industry standards, including:
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NIST Cybersecurity Framework and NIST 800-53
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ISO 27001
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CISA Security Requirements for Restricted Transactions
Algorithm, Software, and Content Protections
Under the new structure, the Joint Venture will assume responsibility for retraining, testing, and updating TikTok’s content recommendation algorithm using U.S. user data. The algorithm will be fully secured within Oracle’s U.S. cloud environment, ensuring protection from unauthorized access.
Software assurance protocols will also be strengthened. The Joint Venture will regularly review and validate source code with support from Oracle as its Trusted Security Partner, ensuring the integrity of U.S. applications.
In addition, TikTok USDS Joint Venture will hold decision-making authority over trust and safety policies and content moderation for U.S. users, reinforcing accountability and transparency through regular reporting and independent oversight.
Global Reach with U.S. Control
While the Joint Venture will oversee security, data, and moderation for U.S. users, TikTok’s global U.S. entities will continue to manage product interoperability and selected commercial activities such as advertising, e-commerce, and marketing. This approach allows American creators and businesses to remain discoverable worldwide while ensuring compliance with U.S. regulations.
The safeguards implemented by the Joint Venture will also extend to CapCut, Lemon8, and a portfolio of other TikTok-owned apps and websites operating in the U.S.
Leadership and Governance
The Joint Venture will be governed by a seven-member, majority-American board of directors, reflecting a blend of technology, investment, and national security expertise. The board includes TikTok CEO Shou Chew, senior leaders from Silver Lake, Oracle, Susquehanna International Group, and MGX, as well as independent security leadership.
Raul Fernandez, President and CEO of DXC Technology, will serve as Independent Director and Chair of the Security Committee, bringing decades of experience in technology, risk, and national security oversight.
The board has appointed Adam Presser as Chief Executive Officer. Presser previously held senior roles at TikTok USDS, TikTok, and WarnerMedia and will lead efforts to secure U.S. operations while supporting growth across TikTok and related platforms.
Will Farrell has been named Chief Security Officer, overseeing the Joint Venture’s comprehensive cybersecurity and data privacy programs. Farrell brings prior experience from TikTok USDS, TikTok, and Booz Allen Hamilton.
Ownership Structure
TikTok USDS Joint Venture has three managing investors — Silver Lake, Oracle, and MGX — each holding a 15% stake. The broader investor group includes the Dell Family Office, Susquehanna International Group affiliates, Alpha Wave Partners, General Atlantic affiliates, and other prominent global investors. ByteDance retains a 19.9% ownership stake, maintaining a minority position.
Securing TikTok’s U.S. Future
With this structure in place, TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC aims to balance national security priorities with innovation, creativity, and global connectivity. The initiative marks a pivotal moment for TikTok’s U.S. operations, reinforcing its commitment to transparency, accountability, and long-term compliance — while ensuring Americans can continue to express themselves, build communities, and grow businesses on the platform.
