European Regulators Warn TikTok Over 'Addictive Design'
The European Commission has issued a warning to TikTok, accusing the social media platform of failing to adequately assess and mitigate the risks posed by its "addictive design" features. The warning comes as part of the EU's efforts to regulate big online platforms under its Digital Services Act.
According to preliminary findings, TikTok's endless scrolling feeds may breach Europe's new content rules, which are designed to protect users' physical and mental wellbeing, particularly children and vulnerable groups. The Commission claims that TikTok's design fuels the urge to keep scrolling, putting users in "autopilot mode," and can have detrimental effects on developing minds.
"Social media addiction can have devastating consequences for our children and citizens online," said Henna Virkkunen, the EU's tech chief. If confirmed, the warning could result in a fine of up to 6% of TikTok's global turnover.
TikTok has pushed back against the allegations, stating that the Commission's findings are "categorically false" and "entirely meritless." The platform is owned by China's ByteDance and has faced regulatory scrutiny before. In 2022, Irish regulators fined TikTok €530 million for sending users' data to China.
The EU's move comes as other nations consider banning social media for teenagers or imposing strict age restrictions on the platforms. Spain announced this week that it will stop access to social media for children under 16, while France and the UK are also exploring similar measures. Australia became the first country in December to ban under-16s from holding accounts for apps deemed potentially harmful.
The European Commission's warning marks an important step forward in regulating big online platforms and protecting users' rights. As social media continues to play a significant role in our lives, it is essential that regulators take action to ensure that platforms like TikTok prioritize user wellbeing over profit.
The European Commission has issued a warning to TikTok, accusing the social media platform of failing to adequately assess and mitigate the risks posed by its "addictive design" features. The warning comes as part of the EU's efforts to regulate big online platforms under its Digital Services Act.
According to preliminary findings, TikTok's endless scrolling feeds may breach Europe's new content rules, which are designed to protect users' physical and mental wellbeing, particularly children and vulnerable groups. The Commission claims that TikTok's design fuels the urge to keep scrolling, putting users in "autopilot mode," and can have detrimental effects on developing minds.
"Social media addiction can have devastating consequences for our children and citizens online," said Henna Virkkunen, the EU's tech chief. If confirmed, the warning could result in a fine of up to 6% of TikTok's global turnover.
TikTok has pushed back against the allegations, stating that the Commission's findings are "categorically false" and "entirely meritless." The platform is owned by China's ByteDance and has faced regulatory scrutiny before. In 2022, Irish regulators fined TikTok €530 million for sending users' data to China.
The EU's move comes as other nations consider banning social media for teenagers or imposing strict age restrictions on the platforms. Spain announced this week that it will stop access to social media for children under 16, while France and the UK are also exploring similar measures. Australia became the first country in December to ban under-16s from holding accounts for apps deemed potentially harmful.
The European Commission's warning marks an important step forward in regulating big online platforms and protecting users' rights. As social media continues to play a significant role in our lives, it is essential that regulators take action to ensure that platforms like TikTok prioritize user wellbeing over profit.
. I mean, they're gonna fine them 6% of their global turnover? That's a pretty sweet deal if you ask me. I think the EU is just trying to cover up some shady dealings. What's really going on behind the scenes? 
They say it's about protecting kids' mental health, but what about all the times they've been accused of sharing user data with China? 
That's not exactly a red flag 
. I'm not saying TikTok is bad or anything, but something just doesn't add up here. Maybe we should be looking at this as a cover story instead of a genuine concern for users' wellbeing? 
, which is defo a good move! i mean who doesn't get sucked into endless scrolling and forgets about the world outside? 
but seriously, social media addiction can have some major consequences for our kids & vulnerable groups, so we gotta take action. 6% fine on TikTok's global turnover? not too shabby 
! Like, we all know how addictive those TikTok feeds can be, right? It's like, you start scrolling and before you know it, hours have passed and you're in autopilot mode 
. I mean, as much as I love a good dance challenge, our mental health (and the kids') should come first! 
And don't even get me started on the data thing... Ireland already fined them €530 million in 2022? That's wild 
. The fact that other countries are starting to take action and consider banning social media for teens is SO necessary 
. We need more regulation, not less! Let's keep our kids safe online, period 
I mean, everyone knows you can keep scrolling until you find a video that's "just one more". 
. Don't get me wrong, I think it's cool and all, but let's not get carried away with this whole "addictive design" thing 
And what's up with the fine of up to 6% of their global turnover? That's like, a lot of money 
. But seriously, what's next? Are we gonna start regulating Netflix and YouTube too? 
It's not like it's going to affect anyone's mental health or anything... I'm just surprised the EU is finally catching up on this one. Apparently, TikTok's algorithm is designed to be super engaging, which means you'll keep coming back for more... even if you're a teenager. Guess that's what happens when you're trying to make money off of user data and engagement metrics. Anyway, it'll be interesting to see how this all plays out, especially with the EU warning being taken seriously. 
! I mean, I knew TikTok had some addictive features but I didn't think it was that bad 
. As someone who's always been mindful of my screen time 
. It's time for them to take responsibility for their actions