tech
February 7, 2026
EU targets ‘addictive’ TikTok
European Commission has threatened TikTok with fines over features like infinite scroll and autoplay, calling the design addictive
TL;DR
- The European Commission (EC) accuses TikTok of having an "addictive design" with features like infinite scroll and autoplay.
- Regulators claim these features encourage compulsive use and could harm users' physical and mental wellbeing, including minors.
- TikTok faces potential fines of up to 6% of its global turnover under the EU's Digital Services Act for serious breaches.
- TikTok rejected the EC's findings, calling them a "categorically false and entirely meritless depiction."
- The platform is also under investigation for alleged foreign interference in Romania's presidential elections.
- A US House Judiciary Committee report described the EC's actions as "the most aggressive censorship" and part of an effort to pressure platforms on content moderation.
- The EU's crackdown on Big Tech has drawn criticism from the US government.
- Several European countries are considering limiting social media access for younger teenagers due to concerns about its impact.
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