EU Commission opens TikTok probe over addictive design failing to protect young users.
Commission Allegations
The European Commission alleges TikTok failed to properly assess how its addictive features harm users, violating the Digital Services Act (DSA). Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier stated the platform also failed to implement effective measures to mitigate this risk.
The Commission launched an investigation in February 2024. Regnier noted TikTok can defend itself; failure may result in a non-compliance decision imposing a fine up to 6% of its global annual turnover.
The Commission considers TikTok’s addictive design a serious threat to the mental health and well-being of children using the platform.
TikTok’s Defense
TikTok, in a statement to PAP, called the Commission’s preliminary findings “categorically wrong and unfounded.” The platform vowed to challenge the findings using all available means.
TikTok argues there’s no universal approach to screen time, advocating for user choice. It offers tools like daily screen time limits and bedtime reminders.
Usage Concerns
The Commission reports TikTok reaches 170 million EU users, mostly children, and is the most popular platform for 13-18 year olds. It states nearly 7% of users aged 12-15 spend 4-5 hours daily on TikTok.
Regnier linked this to TikTok’s infinite scroll, autoplay, push notifications, and highly personalized recommendation systems, which he said lead to compulsive use, especially by children.
The Commission assesses that TikTok’s screen time management and parental controls do not function properly.
Election Context
Separately, the Commission is investigating TikTok over risks to public debate and elections, following the annulment of Romania’s first presidential round in 2024, won by little-known pro-Russian radical Calin Georgescu. His campaign, mainly on TikTok, was found to have irregularities.
Conversely, the Commission praised TikTok’s cooperation in protecting elections, calling it “extremely willing to collaborate” in this specific proceeding.
