London, UK – The UK communications regulator Ofcom has launched a formal investigation into TikTok. This follows serious concerns about the platform’s compliance with its legal obligations to protect minors from harmful content. The move comes after a thorough review by the regulator, which concluded there was “compelling” evidence that the platform had failed to take effective measures to ensure children’s safety. Furthermore, the review identified significant challenges in the platform’s age verification systems.
Focus of investigation: Safety and age verification
The investigation focuses on examining TikTok’s compliance with the Online Safety Act, which has been in phases since October 2023. Ofcom indicated that the app’s current age verification systems have failed to correctly identify a significant number of children. As a result, they have easy access to age-inappropriate content. The regulator clarified that opening an investigation does not necessarily mean finding fault at this stage. However, it emphasized that the investigation aims to determine whether there are reasonable grounds to believe that TikTok has not fulfilled its legal obligations.
Potential sanctions and strict measures
If TikTok is found to be failing to meet its obligations, the platform faces hefty financial penalties. Ofcom has the power to impose fines of up to £18 million, or up to 10% of the company’s annual global revenue, whichever is greater. The regulator can also seek court orders, which would compel internet service providers to restrict or block access to the platform in the UK.
TikTok’s response
For its part, TikTok expressed confidence in complying with the law. A company spokesperson stated, “We rigorously enforce age-appropriate content and invest billions of dollars to enhance platform safety.” The company affirmed its commitment to working with Ofcom to demonstrate the effectiveness of its age-inferring technology, emphasizing that it aligns with global industry standards.
This investigation comes at a sensitive time, just one month after the British government announced its intention to ban the use of social media for those under the age of 16. As a result, visual content platforms are placed under unprecedented regulatory and legal pressure. They must ensure a safer digital environment for children.
