The Federal Trade Commission is investigating TikTok for potential violations of data and security practices, according to sources who spoke to CNN anonymously. This probe adds to the challenges faced by the social media platform, which is already under threat of a US ban or forced divestment from its Chinese parent company. The FTC is specifically looking into allegations that TikTok violated the Children’s Online Privacy Protection rule, which requires companies to notify parents and obtain consent before collecting data from children under 13. Additionally, the agency is investigating whether TikTok violated the FTC Act, which prohibits unfair or deceptive acts in commerce.
The potential FTC lawsuit against TikTok could be imminent, with sources indicating that action may be taken in the coming weeks. Politico first reported on the news of the probe. When questioned about the investigation, FTC Director of Public Affairs Douglas Farrar declined to comment. TikTok has also not responded to requests for comments on the matter. This investigation adds to the growing scrutiny and challenges faced by TikTok in the United States, as the platform navigates an uncertain regulatory landscape.
TikTok’s future in the US is under threat as it faces mounting challenges. Owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, TikTok has denied allegations that it poses a national security risk to American users. The company, which does not operate in China, has maintained that the Chinese government has never accessed user data from the US. Despite these claims, a bipartisan group in the US House of Representatives recently passed a bill that would force TikTok to be sold by ByteDance or face a ban in the country. The bill is now awaiting approval in the Senate, with President Joe Biden indicating he would sign it into law if it reaches his desk.
The ongoing investigation by the FTC adds to the uncertainty surrounding TikTok’s future in the United States. The platform’s popularity has soared in recent years, particularly among younger users who flock to its short-form video content. However, concerns about data privacy and national security have raised red flags, prompting regulatory scrutiny. The outcome of the FTC probe could have significant implications for TikTok’s operations in the US and its relationship with its Chinese parent company.
As TikTok continues to navigate regulatory challenges in the US, the platform is working to address concerns raised by lawmakers and regulators. In response to allegations of data privacy violations and national security threats, TikTok has taken steps to enhance its security practices and protect user data. The company has also engaged with lawmakers and regulators to address their concerns and ensure compliance with existing regulations. The FTC probe marks another hurdle for TikTok to overcome as it seeks to maintain its presence in the highly competitive social media landscape.
The outcome of the FTC investigation and potential legal action against TikTok could have far-reaching implications for the platform and its future in the United States. As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve, TikTok will need to navigate complex challenges to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations. The platform’s response to the FTC probe and its efforts to address data privacy concerns will be closely watched by regulators, lawmakers, and users alike. The coming weeks will likely bring further developments in TikTok’s ongoing battle to secure its place in the US market.
