OMM Newsroom
The European Commission said Friday that TikTok’s recommendation algorithm may breach EU rules by repeatedly exposing users to harmful content, according to preliminary findings reported by Anadolu Agency.
The Commission said TikTok’s personalised “For You” feed could draw users into so-called “rabbit holes” featuring videos about mental health struggles, sadness, isolation and body image. Repeated exposure could harm mental well-being, particularly among minors and vulnerable adults, it said.
TikTok’s algorithm uses engagement signals, including video views and likes, to decide what to recommend. Interacting with potentially triggering material, such as videos about weight loss and body image, could result in recommendations for increasingly similar content.
The Commission said repeated exposure could intensify sadness and anxiety, lower self-esteem and worsen body dissatisfaction, eating disorders and other mental health conditions.
It also found that TikTok had not adequately assessed the risks posed by its recommendation system or introduced effective measures to reduce them. Existing tools intended to diversify recommendations were insufficient to prevent users from repeatedly seeing similar material, according to the Commission.
TikTok’s “not interested” option may also fail to meaningfully alter users’ feeds because the algorithm gives priority to viewing time over explicit requests to see less of certain content.
The Commission said TikTok should consider relying more on users’ stated preferences and removing viewing time as a recommendation signal. It also called for controls that are easier to use and regular testing of the algorithm.
TikTok can now examine the investigation files and submit a written response. If the Commission ultimately confirms its findings, it could issue a non-compliance decision and impose a fine of up to 6% of TikTok’s total worldwide annual turnover.
The findings are part of formal proceedings examining TikTok’s compliance with the EU’s Digital Services Act. The investigation also covers the platform’s addictive design, protection of minors, researchers’ access to public data and advertising transparency.
