LONDON (Kashmir English): The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has launched a probe into TikTok, Imgur and Reddit’s use of children’s personal data with a focus on how the popular video-sharing platforms handle the data of users aged between 13-17 to recommend content in their feeds.
The UK regulators have also warned of potential fines for platforms misusing the data on children.
The decision to probe the matter comes amid mounting concerns over the potential harm that can result from data collection and algorithm-driven content recommendations, particularly for children.
The Information Commissioner’s Office probe will determine whether the practices from TikTok and others lead to children’s exposure to harmful content, unhealthy levels of screen time and privacy violations.
The investigators prime concern is the popular video-sharing platforms’ algorithm, which collects and uses personal data, including users’ time spent on videos, preferences, and interactions to curate content for its users.
According to Information Commissioner, John Edwards, the ICO’s probe would extend to TikTok, Reddit and Imgur, with a particular focus on the age verification processes employed by these platforms.
The investigators want to ensure that these platforms comply with the country’s strict data protection laws, including the Children’s Code, which requires platforms to minimise the collection of children’s data and take extra precautions when processing it.
TikTok says it operates under strict measures
TikTok has said that it operates under “strict and comprehensive measures” designed to protect the privacy and safety of minors.
The platform also insisted that it enforces “robust restrictions” on the content available to teenage users.
The ICO had previously fined £12.7 million to TikTok in 2023 for mishandling children’s data, specifically by collecting personal data from users under 13 without obtaining parental consent. The company is currently appealing this fine.
In addition to TikTok, the age verification systems of Reddit and Imgur are also under investigation.
These systems are crucial in preventing children under 13 from accessing platforms that may contain inappropriate content.
Reddit says 95% of its user base consists of adults and said that it is implementing changes to comply with the country’s regulations. Imgur has yet to respond to the development, according to media reports.
The probe is part of the country’s large efforts to regulate online platforms and protect children from harmful digital experiences.
In 2022, the country 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.
According to the investigators, companies found in violation of the law could face enforcement notices or fines.
The investigation is still in its early stages, and no conclusions have been reached yet.
