Brussels, 23 April 2024 – The European Commission today officially started research against TikTok for its new user reward feature, “Task and Reward Lite,” worrying about the potential impact on mental health, especially minors.
According to the Commission, TikTok may have violated it Digital Services Act (DSA) starting the program without prior risk assessment, ignoring potential negative mental health effects and addictive behaviors.
In particular, the Commission focuses on:
- DSA Compliance: TikTok allegedly failed to conduct and submit a risk assessment report prior to the activation of “Task and Reward Lite”, possibly in breach of Articles 34 and 35 of the DSA.
- Effects on mental health: The Commission is concerned about the addictive design of the feature and the potential negative effects on mental health, especially of minors.
- Risk mitigation measures: TikTok is alleged to have failed to take adequate measures to mitigate these risks.
The Commission has already asked TikTok to:
- To submit the risk assessment report for “Task and Reward Lite” by April 23rd.
- To provide information on risk mitigation measures by May 3.
Possible consequences:
- TikTok could face fines of up to 1% of its global annual turnover.
- The Commission may impose a temporary suspension of “Task and Reward Lite” in the EU.
Next steps:
- The Commission will assess TikTok's responses and take further action if deemed necessary.
- The Commission will cooperate with the competent authorities of the EU Member States to monitor compliance.
Note: The initiation of a formal procedure does not prejudge the final outcome of the investigation.
