Citing national security concerns, the federal government of Canada has ordered TikTok to shutter its Canadian operations — but users will still be able to access the popular video app.

Innovation Minister François-Philippe Champagne said the decision to wind down TikTok's two Canadian offices — in Toronto and Vancouver —  was based on information and evidence that surfaced during a national security review, and the advice of Canada's security and intelligence community.

"We came to the conclusion that these activities that were conducted in Canada by TikTok and their offices would be injurious to national security," he told CBC News.

"I'm not at liberty to go into much detail, but I know Canadians would understand when you're saying the government of Canada is taking measures to protect national security, that's serious."

The statement stressed that the government is not blocking Canadians from accessing the app or using it to create content.

"The decision to use a social media application or platform is a personal choice," the statement said.

But Champagne urged Canadians to use TikTok "with eyes wide open." Critics have claimed that TikTok users' data could be obtained by the Chinese government.

"Obviously, parents and anyone who wants to use social platform should be mindful of the risk," he said.

The decision was made in accordance with the Investment Canada Act, which allows for the review of foreign investments that may harm Canada's national security.

A spokesperson for TikTok said the company plans to take legal action.

"Shutting down TikTok's Canadian offices and destroying hundreds of well-paying local jobs is not in anyone's best interest, and today's shutdown order will do just that. We will challenge this order in court," the spokesperson said in an email. (CBA)