TikTok Under Investigation in the UK for Children’s Data Use
The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has launched an investigation into TikTok regarding its handling of children’s personal information, Anadolu Agency reported. The inquiry focuses on how the platform utilizes data from users aged 13-17 to recommend content and tailor feeds. This investigation arises amid growing concerns about social media platforms using children’s online activity data, potentially exposing them to inappropriate or harmful content.
In addition to TikTok, the ICO is also scrutinizing Reddit and Imgur for their practices related to children’s data and age verification methods. UK Information Commissioner John Edwards emphasized the importance of protecting children’s privacy, stating that social media companies must comply with data protection laws to operate in the UK.
This investigation follows a £12.7 million ($16 million) fine imposed on TikTok in 2023 for mishandling children’s data, which allowed approximately 1.4 million UK children under 13 to access the platform in 2020.
