The EU has asked Chinese online service TikTok to change the way the "addictive" video platform operates.
The EU Commission stated that the initial results of the investigation show that TikTok does not sufficiently take into account "how these addictive features can influence the physical and psychological health of its users."
As examples of changes that could be made, the commission cites the removal of the “infinite scroll” option, the application of efficient breaks on the monitor, and the adaptation of the “high-level personalization recommendation system.” The commission also criticizes the fact that video clips are automatically activated.
The EU Commission is asking businesses to radically change the design of their services.
Criticism: Children are forcefully animated to scroll
The EU Commission accuses TikTok of “ignoring important signs to enforce the use of the app,” such as the time at night that children spend on the platform. The company must change the way it operates in Europe “to protect our minors and their health,” said EU Commissioner for Digital, Henna Virkkunen.
As an example, the commission cited the constant “rewarding” of users with new content. This fuels the urge to keep scrolling and puts the brain on “autopilot.” Scientific studies show that this fosters a compulsive state and the self-control of users, especially young people, suffers.
The Digital Services Act is a thorn in Donald Trump's side
Brussels launched the investigation in February 2024 – the first against TikTok under the EU's Digital Services Act (DSA). The investigation would focus primarily on whether TikTok is taking sufficient measures to avoid negative effects on young people.
The EU's Digital Services Act (DSA) is intended to ensure compliance with transparency requirements, among other things. It also includes measures to combat illegal content online. The law is a thorn in the side of the US President Donald Trump's government and a number of US high-tech companies.
TikTok denies the allegations and will defend itself
The Chinese online company rejects the EU Commission's accusations as unfounded. We will defend ourselves with all our might. If the commission's position is confirmed, TikTok could be fined up to six percent of its annual worldwide turnover./DW/
