European Union regulators have issued a warning to TikTok regarding potentially addictive features on its TikTok Lite app, designed for smoother operation on slower networks. The E.U. investigation comes amidst growing concerns over the app’s ties to China, data collection practices, and harmful effects on children.
Authorities in Europe have criticized TikTok for failing to conduct a required risk assessment before introducing features that incentivize users to spend more time on the app in exchange for rewards. This, they say, poses risks for addiction and mental health issues, particularly among young users. This is the second investigation against TikTok in the E.U., with a previous inquiry focusing on age-verification protections and addictive design features.
In the United States, lawmakers have also taken action against TikTok, passing legislation that could force its owner, ByteDance, to sell the app due to national security concerns. The White House and Congress fear that the Chinese government could exploit TikTok to access American data or spread disinformation.
TikTok Lite, popular in countries like India and Brazil, has recently been introduced in Spain and France. The app is designed to use less memory for phones on slower networks. Under the Digital Services Act, TikTok is required to submit risk assessments before making significant changes, a requirement the company allegedly failed to meet.
TikTok has until April 23 to provide a risk assessment report to the European Commission, with potential fines of up to 1 percent of its annual revenue if it fails to comply. The company has expressed disappointment with the decision and stated that they will continue discussions with the commission.
