The UK's Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has launched an investigation into how TikTok, Reddit, and Imgur protect children's privacy and data.
Social media platforms rely on complex algorithms to prioritize content and maintain user engagement. However, these algorithms can also amplify similar content, potentially exposing children to increasing amounts of harmful material.
The ICO’s probe will assess how TikTok, owned by ByteDance, uses personal data from users aged 13 to 17 to suggest content. Reddit and Imgur are under scrutiny for their methods of verifying the ages of child users.
"If we find sufficient evidence that any of these companies have violated the law, we will present our findings to them and seek their response before reaching a final decision," the ICO stated.
TikTok, Reddit, and Imgur have not yet responded to requests for comment.
The UK has previously introduced stricter regulations requiring social media platforms to prevent children from accessing harmful or inappropriate content by enforcing age restrictions and verification measures. Under proposed British laws published last year, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok must adjust their algorithms to filter out or downgrade harmful material to better protect underage users.
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