EU finds TikTok has 'addictive design' and could face hefty fines
The European Commission has set out preliminary findings from its investigation into TikTok, concluding the app breaches the Digital Services Act (DCA) through an 'addictive design.' The report singles out features such as infinite scroll, autoplay, push notifications and a highly personalised recommender system.
The Commission says TikTok did not adequately assess how those features could harm the physical and mental wellbeing of users, including minors and vulnerable adults. It cites scientific research suggesting that by constantly rewarding users with new content, certain design elements push people into 'autopilot mode,' which can encourage compulsive behaviour and reduce self-control.
Regulators also found TikTok's time-management tools easy to dismiss and of limited effect, while parental controls may be ineffective because they demand extra time and skills from parents.