TikTok Lite under Threat of Removal: European Commission Questions Risk Assessment and Implies Addictive Behavior Allegations

The European Commission is threatening to remove TikTok Lite, a new program that rewards users for watching videos and inviting friends, from the market. The Chinese company behind the popular video app may not have conducted a prior risk analysis. TikTok Lite is designed for adults over 18 and includes a rewards program that allows users to earn points by engaging with the platform. Users can exchange these points for rewards such as vouchers from Amazon and gift vouchers via Paypal.

The Commission has expressed concerns about the program’s potential impact on users’ mental health. They have requested more information from TikTok regarding the risk assessment that should have been conducted before the launch of TikTok Lite. The Commission fears that the program may encourage addictive behavior.

TikTok has yet to provide the required risk assessment to the Commission. The company has until April 23 to do so or they may face a fine of up to 1 percent of their global annual turnover. Moreover, the Commission has indicated that they may take TikTok Lite offline until a thorough assessment of its security has been completed.

As a major online platform with millions of users, TikTok falls under the direct supervision of the Commission. Failure to comply with the law may result in sanctions being imposed on the company. The lack of a prior risk assessment for TikTok Lite suggests that TikTok may be in violation of the new Digital Services Act. TikTok has until April 24 to provide arguments in defense of the program in order to avoid further action from the Commission.