Main points
- The European Commission believes that TikTok may violate EU digital law due to mechanics that promote compulsive use of the platform.
- Among the problematic elements of TikTok are continuous scrolling, automatic video playback, and insufficient time control tools, which can threaten the mental and physical health of users.
EU found violations of digital rules in TikTok's work / Collage 24 Channel
The European Commission has previously found that TikTok may be in breach of EU digital law due to addictive design elements, which are the mechanics of interacting with content that are potentially harmful to users' mental and physical health.
The European Commission said that preliminary results of the investigation indicate that TikTok does not comply with the requirements of EU digital legislation. The reason was the design features of the application that encourage compulsive use of the platform. This is reported by Politico.
What elements of TikTok have triggered the European Commission's complaints?
Among the problematic elements are continuous scrolling, automatic video playback, push notifications and a personalized recommendation system. According to the European Commission , these mechanics constantly stimulate users to consume new content and reduce control over the time spent in the application.
The EC's statement notes that TikTok failed to properly assess the risks to the physical and psychological health of users. Such design decisions may pose a particular threat to minors and adults from vulnerable groups. The constant ” rewarding ” with new videos, according to the regulator, puts users in a state of so-called autopilot.
According to Techxplore , the lack of effective safeguards against excessive use was particularly highlighted. According to the investigation, TikTok did not implement sufficient indicators to show how much time users, including children, spend on the app late at night or how often they open it during the day.
The European Commission considers existing screen time control tools and parental control features insufficient. The regulator is convinced that they do not provide adequate protection against compulsive content consumption.
At this stage, the EC believes that the company needs to change the basic design of the platform. Possible steps include limiting continuous scrolling after a certain time , introducing screen breaks, particularly at night, and adjusting the operation of recommendation algorithms.
Following the publication of the preliminary findings, TikTok will have the opportunity to submit a written response and present its counterarguments. In parallel, the European Commission plans to consult with the European Digital Services Council .
If the preliminary findings are confirmed, the European Commission may adopt a final decision on a violation of the law, which will pave the way for a fine to be imposed on the platform.