The European Commission is scrutinizing TikTok Lite’s launch in France and Spain, citing concerns about its potentially addictive effect on children.
Under the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA), online platforms must address harmful content or face fines up to 6% of their global turnover.
EU industry chief Thierry Breton stated that if TikTok fails to provide compelling safety evidence, they may suspend TikTok Lite’s rewards program, which is suspected of fostering addiction.
TikTok, owned by ByteDance, has until Wednesday to defend its case. The platform expressed disappointment with the Commission’s decision, emphasizing that its rewards hub isn’t available to users under 18 and imposes daily video watch limits.
TikTok must submit a risk assessment report for TikTok Lite within 24 hours or face fines up to 1% of its global turnover. Additional requested information is due by May 3.
TikTok Lite, introduced in France and Spain, features a reward system where users earn points by completing tasks like watching videos, liking content, or inviting friends.
This launch, however, occurred without submitting a risk assessment report as required by the DSA.
In February, TikTok faced another DSA investigation regarding child protection and transparent advertising. The outcome of both probes will determine TikTok’s compliance with EU regulations and potential penalties for non-compliance.
