TikTok on the EU's radar! Investigation launched

The European Union will conduct an investigation into ByteDance's TikTok application due to violations of rules concerning the protection of minors and transparent advertising. While the safety and reliability of social media applications are frequently a subject of debate, it has become common for them to face issues with authorities, particularly regarding the protection of children and transparency. Now, TikTok has caught the attention of the European Union.

According to a statement made by European Union Industry Chief Thierry Breton, the decision was taken following risk analyses conducted on TikTok's videos and responses provided to requests for information. Breton stated, "Today, we are launching an investigation into TikTok regarding suspected violations of transparency and the protection of minors, addictive design, and screen time limits."

The European Union's Digital Services Act (DSA) requires, in particular, large platforms and search engines to play a more effective role in combating risky and illegal content. If the China-based company that owns TikTok, ByteDance, is found guilty, there is a possibility that the company could face fines of up to 6% of its annual turnover.

In a statement made by TikTok, it was noted that they wish to continue ensuring that young individuals and the platform remain safe by collaborating with experts. Furthermore, it was emphasized that TikTok is looking forward to explaining to the European Commission how the platform works. It was stated that TikTok is an industry leader in protecting users under the age of 13 and is actively combating this issue. The European Commission will examine the platform's system design and algorithmic systems to determine whether they create addiction. Additionally, it was highlighted that the EU has launched investigations into other platforms for similar reasons.

News Source: 12punto