UK probes TikTok, Reddit, and Imgur over children’s data security

UK regulators warn of potential fines for platforms misusing children's data.

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The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has launched a significant investigation into TikTok's use of children's personal data. The inquiry will focus on how the popular video-sharing platform handles the data of users aged 13 to 17 to recommend content in their feeds.

The investigation comes amid growing concerns over the potential harm that can result from data collection and algorithm-driven content recommendations, particularly for minors.

The ICO’s investigation will assess whether TikTok’s practices lead to children experiencing risks, such as exposure to harmful content, privacy violations, or unhealthy levels of screen time.

The watchdog's primary concern is the platform’s algorithm, which collects and uses personal data, including user preferences, interactions, and time spent on videos, to curate content for its users.

John Edwards, the Information Commissioner, noted that the ICO's probe would also extend to Reddit and Imgur, with a particular focus on the age verification processes employed by these platforms.

The investigation aims to ensure that these platforms comply with the UK’s strict data protection laws, including the Children’s Code, which mandates platforms to minimise the collection of children's data and take extra precautions when processing it.

TikTok has responded by emphasising that its recommender systems operate under "strict and comprehensive measures" designed to protect the privacy and safety of minors. The company also asserted that it enforces “robust restrictions” on the content available to teenage users.

However, the ICO's scrutiny follows a previous £12.7 million fine against TikTok in 2023 for mishandling children's data, specifically by collecting personal data from users under 13 without obtaining parental consent. TikTok is currently appealing this fine.

In addition to TikTok, the ICO is investigating Reddit and Imgur's age verification systems, which are crucial in preventing children under 13 from accessing platforms that may contain inappropriate content.

Reddit has acknowledged that 95% of its user base consists of adults and stated that it is implementing changes to comply with UK regulations. Imgur has yet to respond to requests for comment.

This investigation is part of the UK’s broader efforts to regulate online platforms and protect children from harmful digital experiences. In 2022, the UK introduced new legislation requiring platforms to enforce age limits and implement robust age checks, along with measures to prevent children from being exposed to age-inappropriate content.

The ICO has warned that companies found in violation of the law could face enforcement notices or fines. However, the investigation is still in its early stages, and no conclusions have been reached yet.