EU takes legal stand against TikTok over addiction fears
22 April 2024 19:43
The European Commission has started legal action against TikTok. The Commission is concerned that TikTok's loyalty program, TikTok Lite, introduced in France and Spain, could harm users. It fears the program might lead to addiction to the platform.
TikTok Lite, rolled out in France and Spain in March, features a task and reward system for users over 18. This program allows users to earn points by completing activities on TikTok, such as watching videos, sharing content, following creators, or inviting friends to join the app.
These points can be earned through various activities on the platform, pushing users to spend more time interacting with the app.
European Commission challenges TikTok over new program
On Monday, the European Commission critiqued the launch of this new program without a comprehensive evaluation of its potential risks, particularly those on addiction and lack of implementing necessary safeguards.
The EC is particularly worried about children, citing concerns over TikTok's age verification processes.
EU authorities are alarmed that the program could encourage addictive behaviour, with users engaging with the app more intensively to gain extra points, potentially harming their mental health.
As a result, the European Commission has decided to take legal action against TikTok.
New proceedings against TikTok under the Digital Services Act
This case marks the second action the European Commission has taken against TikTok under the Digital Services Act (DSA). The first case, initiated in February 2024, is still under investigation and addresses issues such as the protection of minors, advertising transparency, researcher data access, and risk management concerning addictive designs and harmful content.
The DSA requires large online platforms and search engines (with 45 million or more users in the EU) to assess and mitigate any potential risks related to their services.
Legal proceedings do not imply guilt
It's crucial to understand that initiating legal proceedings does not automatically imply wrongdoing. However, should TikTok breach EU digital laws, the European Commission might demand the suspension of the TikTok Lite program.
Noncompliance during these proceedings could lead to a fine of up to 6% of TikTok's annual global turnover.
Currently, the Digital Services Act governs two other major cases: one against the service X (formerly known as Twitter) and another against the e-commerce platform AliExpress.
