The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has taken action against TikTok, referring a complaint to the Department of Justice (DOJ) regarding alleged data privacy violations. Stemming from a compliance review initiated after a 2019 settlement with Musical.ly, the complaint suggests that TikTok may be violating data privacy laws. Specifically, concerns revolve around potential deception regarding data access and the collection of personal information, particularly from children.
While the specifics of the complaint have not been made public, previous investigations into TikTok have centered on violations of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and alleged faulty privacy and data security practices. TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, has faced scrutiny over allegations that it deceived users by denying access to data by individuals in China. This latest action by the FTC underscores ongoing concerns regarding TikTok’s handling of user data and compliance with privacy regulations.
Calls for investigation into TikTok’s practices have intensified, with lawmakers expressing concerns over potential manipulation of American users, including children, by a platform controlled by the Chinese Communist Party. Amidst growing scrutiny, Congress has passed legislation aimed at forcing ByteDance to sell TikTok or face a ban in the United States. The FTC’s actions reflect broader efforts to ensure accountability and transparency in the handling of user data by major social media platforms like TikTok.
