EU finds TikTok violates digital rule book by failing to protect privacy of minors

The European Commission has determined that TikTok failed to adequately protect children’s privacy rights by allowing adults to access minors’ accounts, exposing them to risks such as cyberbullying and predatory behavior. This finding is part of a broader effort by Brussels to regulate major tech companies like Meta and Apple. TikTok now has the opportunity to respond to these findings. If the response is unsatisfactory, the commission may impose a non-compliance decision and a fine of up to 6% of TikTok’s annual revenue. Earlier this year, the EU also found TikTok in violation of digital regulations due to features like autoplay and infinite scrolling, which could negatively impact users’ physical and mental health, particularly minors. QUESTION: How might increased regulation of social media platforms impact the way young people interact online?