EU Launches Probe Into TikTok Over Its "Addictive Design"
Investigating whether the app’s algorithm violates the Digital Services Act.
The EU has launched an investigation to determine whether TikTok breached the Digital Services Act (DSA).
The European Commission made a formal announcement of the probe, saying it’s specifically looking at “areas linked to the protection of minors, advertising transparency, data access for researchers, as well as the risk management of addictive design and harmful content.”
Following a preliminary investigation, which also took into account a risk assessment report sent by TikTok itself, the EU decided to move ahead with the probe on Monday, February 19.
The EU’s main concern for the time being seems to be with TikTok adhering to standards upheld by the DSA regarding algorithms. The Commission says that TikTok’s system could “stimulate behavioral addictions” and even create a “rabbit hole effect” of content consumption.
Other areas include the potential ineffectiveness of TikTok’s age verification tools, as well as the overall privacy and safety of minors. The EU also pointed to a need for greater transparency and TikTok having shortcomings when it comes to giving the public data.
The Commission is continuing to gather data and has no legal deadline for the investigation.
