UK Watchdog Investigates TikTok Over Children's Data Use

The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has launched an investigation into TikTok’s handling of children’s data. The probe will assess how the platform processes personal information of users aged 13-17 to make content recommendations, CE Report quotes Anadolu Agency

The ICO expressed concerns over social media and video-sharing platforms using children's online activity data in ways that may expose them to harmful content. The watchdog is also investigating Reddit and Imgur regarding their use of children’s data and age verification practices.

UK Information Commissioner John Edwards emphasized the importance of compliance with data protection laws, stating, "If social media and video-sharing platforms want to benefit from operating in the UK, they must comply with data protection law."

This follows a £12.7 million ($16 million) fine imposed on TikTok in 2023 for mishandling children's data, including allowing 1.4 million UK children under 13 to access the platform in 2020.