TikTok "risk of addiction"/ EU Commission accuses platform, threatens fine

2026-02-07 08:24:00, Kosova & Bota CNA

TikTok "risk of addiction"/ EU Commission accuses platform, threatens

The EU has asked Chinese online service TikTok to change the way its "addictive" video platform operates. The EU Commission said that initial results of the investigation show that TikTok does not sufficiently consider "how these addictive features can influence the physical and mental health of its users."

As examples of possible changes, the commission cites the removal of the "infinite scroll" option, the application of efficient screen breaks, and the adaptation of the "highly personalized recommendation system." The commission also criticizes the fact that video clips are automatically activated. The EU Commission is asking the company to radically change the design of the service.

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. This venture must change the way it operates in Europe, "to protect our minors and their health", said the EU Commissioner for Digital, Henna Virkkunen.

As an example, the commission cites the constant "rewarding" of users with new content. This triggers the urge to keep scrolling and puts the brain on "autopilot." Scientific studies show that this encourages 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 mainly 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