European Commission’s Probe
The European Union has launched an investigation into popular social media platform TikTok to determine if it has violated the bloc’s stringent digital regulations aimed at safeguarding internet users.
Focus on Digital Services Act
The EU’s executive branch, the European Commission, has initiated formal proceedings to assess whether TikTok has contravened the Digital Services Act (DSA), a comprehensive framework established to enhance online safety. The regulations include provisions to identify and address harmful or illegal content, prevent behavioral addictions caused by algorithmic systems, and prohibit targeted ads towards children.
Protection of Minors
The commission’s primary concern is TikTok’s approach to mitigating “systemic risks” inherent in its design, particularly in safeguarding minors from inappropriate content. Thierry Breton, the EU’s internal market commissioner, emphasized the platform’s responsibility in protecting young users online and stressed the need for TikTok to comply fully with the DSA.
TikTok’s Response
TikTok has defended its efforts to ensure teen safety and restrict access for users under 13. The company highlighted ongoing collaborations with experts and industry partners to enhance youth protection measures and expressed readiness to elaborate on its initiatives to the Commission.
Broader Scrutiny and Consequences
Besides examining TikTok’s adherence to privacy standards for minors and transparency in advertising, the EU is also evaluating the platform’s data accessibility for researchers. The EU’s stringent monitoring under the DSA extends to major online platforms, with potential significant fines for non-compliance. Notably, Elon Musk’s X, previously Twitter, is among the entities currently under investigation for regulatory breaches.