TikTok Faces Formal Investigation Over Minor Safety Concerns

The European Union has officially launched an investigation into popular social media platform TikTok, aiming to determine whether the company is adequately safeguarding minors on its platform. This probe also seeks to examine suspected violations of the EU’s Digital Services Act, a significant step in regulating large tech companies.

According to a statement issued by the European Commission on Monday, the investigation was prompted by concerns over TikTok’s functionalities, systems, and policies regarding certain suspected infringements. While the investigation is underway, it does not preempt the outcome, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive assessment of TikTok’s practices.

One of the primary focuses of the inquiry is TikTok’s compliance with requirements aimed at protecting minors and mitigating the risk of addiction to its content. The Commission intends to evaluate the effectiveness of TikTok’s age verification tools in preventing children from accessing inappropriate content and ensuring their privacy and safety.

Additionally, the investigation will scrutinize TikTok’s transparency regarding advertisements on its platform and its provision of data access to researchers. The European Commission has expressed concerns that TikTok’s age verification measures may not be reasonable, proportionate, or effective, raising questions about the platform’s commitment to safeguarding minors.

In response to the investigation, TikTok has emphasized its dedication to implementing features and settings designed to protect teenagers and prevent underage users from accessing its platform. The company asserts its commitment to collaborating with experts and industry stakeholders to ensure the safety of young people on TikTok.

The probe into TikTok’s compliance with the Digital Services Act comes amidst increasing regulatory scrutiny of large tech companies operating in the EU. Companies found to have violated the Act could face substantial fines, equivalent to up to 6% of their annual global revenue.

This investigation marks the second formal proceeding initiated by the European Commission against a major social media company in recent months, underscoring the EU’s commitment to upholding digital rights and consumer protection in the digital age. TikTok, along with other tech giants, faces heightened scrutiny as regulators seek to ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, and user safety.