EU orders TikTok to fix addictive design or face huge fines
The European Union has warned TikTok to change its TikTok addictive design or face major fines. The decision follows a long investigation into the platform’s safety practices. As a result, TikTok now faces strong pressure to act quickly. The European Commission started the probe in February 2024.
It reviewed how TikTok’s features affect user wellbeing.
However, officials said the platform failed to assess key risks properly. Investigators focused on features like autoplay and infinite scroll. These tools keep people watching for long periods.
In addition, regulators say children face the greatest harm. Possible fines and platform changes. The EU could fine TikTok up to six percent of global revenue. That amount could reach billions of dollars.
Therefore, the stakes are extremely high for the company.
EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen said TikTok must redesign its service in Europe. For example, the platform could add night-time screen breaks. It could also adjust algorithms that push endless videos. The Commission also suggested disabling infinite scroll. This feature allows users to swipe endlessly. As a result, it can increase unhealthy usage habits.
TikTok rejected the findings and called them misleading. The company plans to challenge the decision. However, it must respond formally before final penalties apply. Experts say this marks a major shift in regulation. Instead of targeting content, regulators now target design. Young users, in particular, have demanded these changes for years.
