EU regulators said on Tuesday the Chinese-owned short-video sharing app TikTok has agreed to strengthen the rights of European Union users, preventing possible sanctions in the future. a case due to multiple complaints from consumer groups in the bloc.
The European Consumer Organization (BEUC) in its 2021 complaint said TikTokwhich has seen rapid growth worldwide, especially among teenagers, has failed to protect children from hidden advertising and inappropriate content.
The company has subsequently held discussions with the European Commission and a national network of consumer protection authorities to address the concerns and has now agreed, the EU executive said. with some changes.
These include the introduction of an additional option that allows users to more easily report ads that are likely to encourage children to buy goods or services or convince parents or others to buy them for them.
Branded content will not be allowed to promote inappropriate products and services. Among other commitments, the company will clarify how to receive rewards from its platform, and paid ads in videos will be more clearly labeled.
“All social media platforms are required to follow the rules and ensure that commercial content can be easily identified by consumers, even when promoted by influencers,” said the director. commissioner of justice Didier Reynders speak in a statement.
TikTok says it will continue to improve its features.
However, BEUC says TikTok’s offer has dropped in some regions.
“The impact of such engagements on consumers remains uncertain. Despite more than a year of dialogue with TikTok, the investigation is now closed, leaving significant concerns that we have not yet addressed. resolved,” BEUC Deputy Director General Ursula Pachl said in a statement.
© Thomson Reuters 2022
